Ropp: Mid-Century Sandblasted (M513) Tobacco Pipe

Part of Ropp's Mid-Century line of Danish-inspired pipes, the "M513" is a sleek and slender iteration of the Dublin that's immediately reminiscent of a fusion of its namesake profile and the Lovat. The transition here is quite wide and gives way to an extended stretch of slender, round shank which is paired to a sleek saddle stem of jet-black vulcanite. The duo instantly draws the eye, as its lengthiness pulls a good deal of visual weight away from the bowl while keeping things balanced. Up front, the bowl stands atop a slightly rounded heel and takes on a striking flare out to its broad rim, providing a sturdy feel in hand, though remaining a reserved size that allows the entire composition to remain light.

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.