Becker: Sandblasted Poker (Two Clubs) Tobacco Pipe

A third-generation pipe maker, Federico Becker continues the legacy started by his father and grandfather in the 1970s. Federico's style is often quite angular and dynamic, with firm, pronounced lines dominating a good deal of the pipes in his portfolio. This Poker is more traditional and straightforward, offering the minimalist silhouette and raw functionality associated with the design. While Federico often incorporates shaping cues from other schools of design, this piece leans more toward the Italian neoclassical style, with the firm, muscular bowl overshadowing the comparatively trim shank-and-stem arrangement that stretches out back. The overall design is quite compact, measuring less than five inches from bowl to bit, making it easily transportable and ideal for on-the-go smoking. The lightweight nature of the shape and the tapered vulcanite mouthpiece ensure comfortable clenching between the teeth, while the flat heel enables the piece to rest sturdily. A crisp sandblast dresses the stummel and brings out nice waves of growth rings across the surface of the bowl. It's been left unstained, so, as it is smoked, it will darken with patina, taking on tans, golds, and browns for plenty of bespoke character.