G. Penzo: Rusticated Billiard with Palm (Flame) (A) Tobacco Pipe

While I would certainly call this Billiard abbreviated, it doesn't quite come across as chubby. A fairly handy design from Giacomo Penzo, the stout bowl, firm heel, and tapering shank are all signs of Italian influence, while the smaller size shows Penzo's affinity for easy-to-stow shapes overall. What makes this piece particularly interesting, though, is not its size — it's its virgin finish. Even when dressed in a rugged rustication, a virgin finish will ensure any flaws in the briar are on display, yet there are none to be found here. Just plenty of texture to enjoy as you smoke, and to ensure a delightful patina develops with time. And while the palette of the piece is quite understated, with simple, pale briar and a jet-black stem, a stem inlay of palm wood offers a touch of additional color and smooth texture to the piece as a whole. Lovely work.