Ardor: Alveare Giant Fantasy Bent Apple Tobacco Pipe

Ardor's Giant series pipes are quite aptly named, being the largest examples crafted by the Roveras, with this particular bent Apple example stretching out to over eight inches in length. Immediately I am struck by the bowl, a massive, bulbous handful of briar that comes in at nearly three inches tall and over three inches in diameter, creating a powerful and commanding presence in hand. This bowl lends itself to being cradled in the palm rather than held with the fingers, though its wide transition offers plenty of room to drape a thumb. The shank which ebbs out of this transition is lenticular in shape, with a pair of firm ridges running through the flanks toward the black acrylic accented end. There begins the stem, its beginning marked by a silvery fitment which leads to a round expansion ring before the demure downturn of the bit. Dressing this piece is the unique Alveare finish, recognized by its channels of dark rustication which separate islands of smooth, carved briar, making for a thoroughly unique look, its colors contrasted sharply by the metal stem accent.