Ropp: Mid-Century Sandblasted (M309) Tobacco Pipe

Ropp's "M309" shape is an interesting take on the classic bent Dublin, infusing the profile with a sense of gracile fluidity balanced by a firm musculature. A wide transition leaves plenty of room to drape a digit and gives way to a lifting shank-and-stem combination whose silhouette is reminiscent of the Hawkbill's aquiline curvature. Furthermore, the shank-and-stem combination is possessed of a firm, square paneling throughout, whose rigid muscularity balances the bowl and tempers the aft side's sweeping curves. These curves guide the shank out of both the transition and the firm, pronounced heel spur, the lift it grants the aft side contributing to a sweeping undercurve that balances the presence of the bowl. Said bowl stands proudly atop the heel and flares out to a broad rim, the subtle curves of its walls keeping it comfortable in the hand.

Ropp's Mid-Century series embodies the intersection between the French and Scandinavian pipe making traditions. After WWII, Scandinavian pipe production skyrocketed, infusing the craft with minimalist designs and functional aesthetics. The burgeoning Scandinavian workshops turned to France, the progenitor of pipe tradition, to supply them with the tools and knowledge necessary for escalating the modern pipe making movement. The Mid-Century series is comprised of old-stock stummels originally shaped during that exciting time, which were recently finished at the historic Chapius-Comoy factory. Furthermore, the shapes showcase iconic Scandinavian design cues like sweeping, gestural profiles and towering bowls. Additionally, every Mid-Century pipe wears one of Ropp's signature finishes, either a chocolatey sandblast or smooth auburn stain, with this piece being dressed handsomely in the former.