J. Alan: Smooth Fish (1802) Tobacco Pipe

J. Alan pipes are handmade by Jeff Gracaik and are among the most sought after in the business, and for good reason. The American carver studied under Todd Johnson, Tonni Nielsen, and Jody Davis, among others, their tutelage adding to Gracik's intuitive skills. This Fish is a fine testament of such talent, embodying his elegant approach to pipe making and highlighting his individualistic approach to the form, which was pioneered by such Danish artisans as Jess Chonowitsch and Nanna Ivarsson.

The supple, rounded bowl is imbued with a lifting heel, while the upwardly curling shank is marked by a pronounced ridgeline, seen here flanking the left side and continuing up the bowl near the transition, all of which is characteristic of the Fish design. The undercurve balances the waistline of the bowl's fore with the flaring, teardrop-shaped and slightly inflated shank face, the base of the stem slanted in cohesion, bringing it into the composition. One of the artisan's rich, auburn contrast stains dresses the stummel, highlighting stunning vertical grain on the bowl's flanks, with beautiful birdseye cloaking the entire underside. Gracik is a master at shaping the briar to best display its grain, which is clearly seen in this Danish-inspired piece, the ridgeline separating birdseye and its vertical counterpart in delightful fashion. A strikingly handsome pipe with intricate nuances, this Fish is an uncommon design for J. Alan and will elevate the pipe collection of its discerning owner.