GH.ZHANG: Red Sandblasted Paneled Dublin (J. Alan) (02) 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.

J. Alan pipes are crafted by Jeff Gracik, whose spur-of-the-moment shaping style results in pieces that range from traditional to avant-garde, but are always one of a kind. Therefore, the collaboration between J. Alan and GH Zhang offers a special opportunity for anyone to appreciate Gracik's unique shapes across several distinct renditions. This J. Alan "02" Paneled Dublin by GH Zhang showcases hexagonal facets across its form. The bowl is framed by six crisp panels, which flare as they ascend to the inflated rim, which marks the only flourish of softness across the structural composition. Furthermore, the facets flow onto the broad shank, resulting in a sweeping profile, which is primarily framed by the two flat panels on the flanks that seamlessly extend from the rim to the shank end. This particular J. Alan "02" is dressed in a craggy sandblast, the rugged texture of the briar's exposed growth rings exuding rustic appeal.