Bill Shalosky: Sandblasted Bent Billiard with Mammoth and Bakelite (552) Tobacco Pipe

An American pipe artisan who carves pipes for the BriarWorks workshop, Bill Shalosky also produces fine handmade renditions under his own name, of which this supple bent Billiard is an excellent example. He began his journey into the world of pipe making at the Smoker's Haven workshop where he repaired and restored pipes, and also crafted the shop's handmade pieces. In addition, he worked alongside Premal Chheda to make Chheda pipes, the whole of his experience clearly elevating his craft as he approached this pipe. An upright bowl perches neatly at the end of a stout, arcing shank, the profile reminding me of Danish pipe design with its soft transition and lifted heel, while also exuding a sense of American muscularity via the shank.

A rippling sandblast dresses undulating ring grain climbing the bowl, and Bill has waxed it to give the briar a chance to patinate and achieve a truly bespoke coloration. A trim ring of mammoth crowns the shank end with subtle contrast, while a vibrant blue Bakelite saddle stem curls downward to offer a comfortable smoking position and promise excellent jaw-hanging potential. A light, well-balanced pipe that is every bit as functional as it is beautiful, this one looks like a future favorite in one lucky collector's rotation.