Yeti: Smooth Dublin (531)

Micah "Yeti" Cryder has a fondness for Dublins, his portfolio full of iterations of the iconic, flared shape, with renditions varying in size, bend, and general form. This particular version is Micah's smallest Dublin to date. Measuring under four and a half inches in length and at less than 35 grams, this nosewarmer is conveniently compact, offering an effortless clench and easy portability. Such diminutive proportions are a staple within Cryder's work, and they require a particularly deft hand and detailed eyed — having to carve the pipe in more tight-knit areas while also keeping the proportions exact.

Such skilled execution is evident on this piece. Balanced by the bowl's forward cant, the form is marked by an oval shank whose flanks have been paneled for a crisp, architectural accenting touch. The faceted nature of the shank also serves to define the bowl's curves as they flare toward the plateau covering part of the rim. Micah often enjoys this type of plateau orientation — covering the rim unevenly and uncompletely to offer an asymmetrical, organic aesthetic that, in this case, contrasts the shank's more structured, clean-lined motif.

The general shape, use of plateau, and flattened shank call to mind this previous Dublin from the American artisan. The similarities are apparent and Yeti's style consistent, yet his creativity permits individually unique renditions, with this one adding rigid structure to the shank and opting for a natural, virgin finish. Such a finish is rare for pipemakers, necessitating a briar block that's both clean and free of imperfections as well as endowed with choice grain. Micah found one such block here — the flame grain along the flanks aligning perfectly with the bowl's flare and the shank's facets, while birdseye populates the top and bottom, interspersed among the craggy plateau at the rim. As is true of all natural finishes, this piece will patinate as it's smoked, the ensuing colors visually symbolizing time enjoyed.