Scott Thile: Smooth Bulldog (OP2) (487) Tobacco Pipe

Scott Thile's appreciation for classic shapes is realized with this smooth Bulldog, which is also imbued with the American carver's own design nuances. A talented musician in addition to pipe artisan, Scott's early foray into the latter was mostly an autodidactic experience. He studied the work of American carvers Adam Davidson and Todd Johnson, among others, progressing rapidly in his adopted craft.

This smooth Bulldog is similar to other renditions of the same we've seen from Scott. The forward-canting bowl is replete with traditional twin beadlines just beneath the domed rim. The firm lines of the angular heel extend through the diamond shank and stem, which Scott has shaped to taper gradually toward the bit of the vulcanite mouthpiece. A handsome, understated piece rife with classic appeal, it's dressed in a vibrant contrast stain, unveiling vast flickers of flame grain beneath the demarcating beadlines.