Castello: Collection Fiammata Bent Pot (K) Tobacco Pipe

Entire collections have been dedicated to Castello's signature "55" design — the lovely bent Pot shape seen here. In fact, to many Castello aficionados, the simple mention of the number "55" will elicit a glimmer of longing in the eye or, at the very least, a casual smile. It's simply an unforgettable shape and one that has spawned countless facsimiles and clones. None have been able to achieve the poise and grandeur of the original "55," though, despite decades of attempts. This rendition from the Italian workshop closely adheres to that iconic archetype with its squat bowl, firm, jutting heel, and the graceful Prince-like bend to its stem. We find it here finished in a gorgeous, honey-blonde stain, with dancing flame grain around the bowl and speckles of birdseye gracing the rim. The flame grain is so impressive that Castello awarded this piece their Fiammata grade, an honor that denotes briars with exceptional flame grain.