Sandblasted Dublin (Four Clubs) (2022) Tobacco Pipe

Federico Becker represents the third generation of his family turning pipes, following in the footsteps of grandfather Fritz and father Paolo, who founded the Becker workshop together in 1974. The self-titled brand Federico carries on today is known for organic renditions of classic shapes, most commonly featuring sharp, angular heels. In many ways, the straightforward style of the English school can be observed through Federico's sandblasted pipes, such as this Dublin.

Precision is also key to Federico's work — though just under five and a half inches in length, this Dublin weighs in at less than an ounce. An inflated rim akin to that of a Bulldog and a sharp heel give the bowl a diamond-like profile when observed from the fore, and a short section of smooth briar sits between the end of the sandblast and the start of the tapered cumberland stem. The rest of the stummel (other than the underside) is given over to a dark sandblast that beautifully accentuates the cross grain and flame grain, allowing both to easily catch the light and the eye. The underside of the stummel curves lightly downward to the heel's point, taking the lines away from a traditional Dublin while still preserving the bowl's traditional cant. Federico manages to be at once meticulous and playful with this piece, a fine addition to the collection of any Becker fan.