Nørding: Erik The Red Partially Rusticated Bent Billiard Tobacco Pipe

Nording's Erik the Red line of pipes consist of more traditionally shaped pieces than, say, the carver's Danish Fancy Freehands with their fluting ridges, channels and peaks of plateau. These smoking instruments are also set at more wallet-friendly prices, with this bent Billiard being a fine example of the series. Tall with a commensurate deep chamber, the bowl features a plump base and gentle, sloping sides that come to a taper at the chamfered rim. It's paired to an upturned, round shank that's then topped by an acrylic stem that turns down slightly, promoting a comfortable jaw-hanging posture, if desired. This piece is wearing dual finishes: The lower bowl and transition are darkly rusticated, with the shank end and rim area rendered in a smooth, smoky ruby and black stain for a handsome presentation.