J. Alan: Sandblasted Paneled Dublin (1896) Tobacco Pipe

From his workshop in San Diego, California, Jeff Gracik carves pipes that are widely regarded as among the finest in the world. Carving under the J. Alan name, Gracik made his first pipes while a Master's student at Princeton, quickly becoming enamored with the craft, to the benefit of smokers everywhere. His style borrows many cues from the Danish school, with S. Bang and Jess Chonowitsch being among his more potent influences.

This piece, however, reminds one of the work of the master of paneled pipes, Poul Ilsted, particularly in the shape of the bowl, while the shank and stem design are pure Gracik. The bowl features a six-paneled construction, characterized by perfectly even sections and impeccably straight ridges, quite a feat considering briar's natural unruliness. A broad domed rim capes the cowl, with a generous chamber nestled within the bowl's thick walls. A slightly extended shank brings up the rear, also featuring a six-paneled design, with the ridges of the diamond-shaped bowl's fore and aft continuing down through the heel and transition, culminating in the firm lines of the downturned vulcanite saddle stem. Dressed in a rich natural sandblast, the stummel boasts excellent ring grain around the bowl, with a wealth of birdseye at the rim, mirrored in the heel and shank. This masterfully designed piece will make a welcome addition to the pipe aficionado's collection.