Scott Thile: Smooth Bulldog with Boxwood (OP) (492) 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. A handsome, understated piece rife with classic appeal, it's dressed in a warm stain that unveils vast flickers of flame grain beneath the demarcating beadlines. Additionally, a boxwood accent adorns the junction and ties the overall composition together with a touch of vibrancy.