Davide Iafisco: Smooth Tomato Tobacco Pipe

Davide Iafisco pipes are often prominently curvaceous and organic, with this Tomato being a fine example of the Italian artisan's shaping and finishing finesse. His portfolio includes pieces inspired by various design schools, and he's studied with legendary carvers, including Teddy Knudsen and Claudio Cavicchi in addition to having attended Jeff Gracik and Adam Davidson's pipe-making seminars.

This Tomato is characterized by a low-lying, charmingly plump and broad bowl, which is lent a softened disposition, as is the entire piece, reminiscent of Danish shaping cues and a touch of organicism often seen from Japanese makers. The bowl displays a lifting heel and forward-ebbing profile with the gently rounded rim, high waist and downward taper bringing to mind the Acorn shape. The aforementioned heel features a pronounced arrow-shaped ridgeline that curls upward on both flanks toward the tucked transition, seemingly separating the bowl and shank when seen in silhouette. Viewed from above, however, that ridgeline remains hidden. Speaking of the shank, it's defined by soft line work and rises nearly imperceptibly, flaring to a lens shape at its face. A brass inlay lines the mortise and the short, push-style stem fits via a mount configuration. A honey-blonde stain covers the stummel, revealing a stunning presentation of flame grain and birdseye, the warm tones complemented by the hand-cut, cumberland mouthpiece.