GH.ZHANG: Smooth Tuban with Boxwood (Dirk Heinemann) (01) Tobacco Pipe

Guo Hui Zhang's passion for pipes began with his work as an importer and purveyor of pipe-making materials. Zhang's understanding of large-scale pipe logistics inspired an exciting idea: the mass production of high-quality, artisan pipes. In 2017, he opened the GH Zhang workshop and partnered with pipe makers around the world to achieve his vision. Each GH Zhang pipe is designed by a famous artisan pipe maker and shaped on a CNC machine before being finished by hand and fitted with stems by the team at GH Zhang. Offering more than 40 shapes in smooth and sandblasted finishes, GH Zhang presents pipe smokers with a rare opportunity to procure artisan-style pipes at an accessible price.

Leveraging a background in furniture design and antique restoration, Dirk Heinemann produces distinctive shapes that showcase his creative, avant-garde style. The Tuban is one of Heinemann's signature shapes, and it's defined by its tubular build and consistent, gentle curvature. This Heinemann "01" Tuban by GH Zhang retains the form's characteristic features, including a seamlessly married bowl and shank, a gentle rim-ward taper, and a clear undercurve. Less than four inches in total length, this piece is perfect for on-the-go smoking, its reduced size making it convenient to travel with, either in hand or in a jacket pocket. A warm smooth finish dresses the stummel and highlights striking grain across the briar's surface, while a warm boxwood accent adorns the stem base and provides a touch of vibrancy to the overall form.