Claudio Cavicchi: Smooth Bent Dublin with Silver (CCCC) Tobacco Pipe

Claudio Cavicchi grades his pieces using "C's", ranging from one to five, with the rare "Perla" and nigh-unobtainable "Diamante" coming after. A "CCCC" graded piece is presented here, and it testifies to the Italian artisan's skill at both discerning well-oriented blocks of briar and, then, shaping them in accordance with said grain. Not only this, but it shows the Italian artisan's dedication to and insistence on perfection. Dublins are particularly good shapes to showcase vivid flame grain, and this bent rendition does so in beautiful fashion — flowing streaks cover the bowl from heel to rim. The gorgeous display is highlighted in Claudio's signature honey-blonde stain; the rim is tastefully covered in the briar's natural plateau; and the junction is accented with a band of sterling silver.