Rook Billiard (2026) Tobacco Pipe

Tonino Jacono got his start in pipe making in 1981 when he joined forces with his brother-in-law, who shared his interest in the craft, and his father-in-law, who owned a briar-cutting mill. At first, the trio would share in the pipes' production, with his father-in-law drilling the pipes, his brother-in-law shaping them, and Tonino finishing them. These days, however, Tonino heads production on his own, utilizing charmingly old-school tools and techniques and sustaining the workshop's legacy of excellent pipes at fair prices.

This Billiard from Jacono is a rather straightforward rendition of the classic shape, albeit rendered in Italian neoclassical proportions, with the bowl dominating the composition. Said bowl stands proud and stately at the fore of a lengthy, low-set shank, which is joined by a succinctly tapered stem. The stummel showcases a wealth of handsome grain throughout, with flickers of flame grain climbing the walls of the bowl, and birdseye swirling around the rim and along the length of the shank. A warm, rich stain draws out these lovely grain patterns, and imbues the pipe with an elegant and inviting air.