Becker: Sandblasted Strawberry Wood Rhodesian (Four Clubs) (S) Tobacco Pipe

When one thinks of Federico Becker's design aesthetic, crisp, sharply defined heels along with other sleek, angular line work come to mind. This strawberry wood Rhodesian is a departure from that aesthetic, featuring a dynamic, forward-urging silhouette, the rounded form set to scurry forth as characterized by its protruding, broad waistline. The shank, too, promotes some delightful curves, and extending from a mid-set transition, it displays a pronounced cinch, then goes on to gradually flare upward. It's topped by a handsome, hand-cut cumberland stem, its brilliant colors further accentuated by two pale bands of boxwood near the base, while the strawberry wood comprising the stummel takes well to one of the carver's virgin-finished sandblasts, promoting a patina after prolonged smoking. Another fun shape from the skillful Italian carver, this one is sure to turn heads.