J. Alan: Sandblasted Bent Brandy with Ivorite (1939) Tobacco Pipe

American artisan Jeff Gracik of J. Alan pipes, at the beginning of his career, made journeys to learn from master pipe makers Todd Johnson and Jody Davis, and then Danish carver Tonni Nielsen. He learned a great deal about the functionality and artistry required to craft a truly refined smoking instrument, and since starting his career some years ago, Gracik's pipes have become some of the most sought after pieces by discerning collectors the world over. While his work possesses a particular affinity for the soft features and organic shaping of the Danish tradition, his work has become something entirely his own, elevated by the American carver's keen eye for gorgeous finishes and playful line work.

The bent Brandy isn't a shape we often see from Gracick, making this particular piece something of a rare find. As is typical for the form, this piece boasts a muscular bowl that tapers gradually from its wide heel to its tauter rim. Said bowl is set to a wide, oval shank that emerges from the low-set transition, glides upward, and then tapers subtly into a demurely curved mouthpiece of jet-black vulcanite. Though felt more than seen, a ridgeline can be traced from the base of the bowl to the flanks of the shank, its presence lending some structure to the form's otherwise curvaceous build. A dark sandblast dresses the stummel and coaxes out radiating growth rings that travel from the heel to the smoothly polished, softly inflated rim. An accent of ivorite adorns the junction and offers a touch of of warmth to the pipe's reserved color palette.