Claudio Cavicchi: Smooth Volcano (CCC) Tobacco Pipe

Claudio Cavicchi is truly a master of his craft, and his ability to coax the best possible grain out of every piece of briar will always astound me. His over 50 years of experience ensures that his pipes are not only beautiful, but expertly shaped and precisely drilled. This Volcano is an example of both, as its lithe curves draw the eye toward the broad base and firm heel, a feature that, fortuitously enough, allows the pipe to sit stably. Not only this, but said heel additionally draws the eye toward the bowl, which ascends straight up from the base's wrapping ridgeline and emphasizes the dense array of flame grain that surrounds the briar. The heel also contains a swirling vortex of mystifying birdseye, acting like the perfect canvas to showcase it. It would be difficult to say whether it is the impeccable grain or the expert shaping that makes this piece so alluring, but in my opinion, it is a combination of both: as the shaping compliments the grain and vice versa, a testament to Cavicchi's expertise in his craft that earns this pipe the CCC grade.