G. Penzo: Sandblasted Morta Pear with Bamboo (Shell) (A) Tobacco Pipe

Born in Italy, Giacomo Penzo was first introduced to pipes during his time studying Industrial Design at university and quickly became infatuated with their ritualistic qualities. Penzo's affinity for pipe smoking led to him giving pipe making a try, and after several years of honing his skills, he became one of the best known pipe carving artisans in Italy. In 2019, Penzo became the pipe specialist at Peterson in Ireland, but still finds time to craft his own pipes as well. Penzo appreciates the timeless appeal of traditional shapes and typically incorporates Danish design cues into his classic pipes.

This Pear by G. Penzo features the shape's traditional bowl that flares from a tight heel to a plump waistline near the rim, with this example possessing a particularly upright posture. Furthermore, the bowl is fashioned from Morta. Also, known as Bog Oak, Morta is semi-petrified wood that has alluring grain, which is brought out here in a tactile sandblast that highlights the perpendicular pattern of undulating growth rings and wiry vertical grain. Penzo employs another alternative material on the shank, bamboo, which showcases two rugged knuckles and a shining blonde hue. The composition is topped with a saddle stem, which offers the comfortable clench of vulcanite and the flourishing color-palette that matches the gray and ochre hues of the Morta bowl.