Adam Davidson: Sandblasted Fig Tobacco Pipe

We are no strangers to this Fig shape, as it's one of Adam Davidson's signature designs; however, no two iterations are exactly the same. This specific piece features an iconic, flaring and rounded bowl, similar to that of an Acorn, but with a Cutty-like foot at its heel. If held in such a way that the bottom of the foot runs parallel with the horizon, creating a plane of reference, the rest of the stummel appears to be balancing upon the heel. The bowl and shank are canted at precise angles that correspond perfectly to their respective visual weights. This posture is, then, tied together with the gentle, continuous curve from the end of the shank to the tip of the rim, passing straight through the heel's foot before tightening its arc up the bowl's face — an immaculate silhouette.

The end of the shank also warrants a detailed note, as it has a ring of brass circumscribing the mortise and encircling the base of the vulcanite stem, handmade by Davidson, when inserted. The flared oval shank is also oriented at a slight, asymmetrical tilt, likening the inset brass circle to a celestial orb girdled in a Saturn-esque ring made by the outline of the shank. Wearing a deeply dark, earthy brown stain and one of Adam's exquisite sandblasts, this piece is surprisingly light, making it a joy to hold or clench. If you have yet to add a Davidson to your collection, have several of his other pieces but lack this signature one, or are simply a fan of the Fig shape, this sandblasted rendition should not be passed up.