Bill Shalosky: Sandblasted Bent Dublin with Fordite (646) Tobacco Pipe

When asked about the pipes that inspired him, Bill Shalosky points to "every pipe ever made," which makes sense when viewing the diverse range of shapes within his portfolio. His work can range from classic shape-chart standards to highly stylized, Danish-inspired pieces, but whatever Shalosky ends up crafting, his love of pipe making, in all its many aspects, is on full display. He has fashioned pieces for BriarWorks, Smoker's Haven, and Chheda Pipes, so he has considerable experience, which is clearly evident when considering this bent Dublin.

This piece is a fetching and muscular rendition of the classic shape, its build and dimensions sturdy without being overwhelming. As a shape, it features a broad, forward-canted bowl that stands at the fore of a sweeping shank-and-stem arrangement. The bowl's surging flare coupled with the shank and stem's rearward reach fosters a dynamic profile that captures the eye and showcases the form's deep curvature. The broad rim dips at its fore and aft sides, further accentuating the bowl's active posture and firm, slightly cinched build. A dark sandblast dresses the stummel and draws out rippling growth rings across the bowl's flanks, while a band of Fordite — the result of paint spray in old American automotive factories dripping off of cars, baking in the heat, and building up over time with layers of different colors — accents the junction and ties the entire composition together with a dose of vibrant color.