Jess Chonowitsch: Partially Sandblasted Mushroom Tobacco Pipe

Jess Chonowitsch has been lauded as one of the finest pipemakers ever to touch briar, and that reputation is reflected in this pipe. It's a remarkable example of mixed texture, with the wide, smooth, domed rim in contrast to the low profile sandblast. The wide shank is an excellent design element, providing a broad surface to showcase the grain. With a soft transition that makes the bowl and shank seem one fluid object, the pipe's curves lift the bowl just enough for the smooth rim to distinguish itself as the primary visual attraction. The visual weight of the piece is all forward in harmony with the subtle forward motion implied by the slight cant of the bowl. The stems on Chonowitsch pipes hold never-ending interest; they are spectacularly precise, with the smoke hole hollowed perfectly at the lip button, which is easily recognizable as Jess-made. Even the color is remarkable, with the same stain on the smooth and blasted sections, which is not only beautiful, but permits a comparison of the two textures with the same stain. Whoever ends up with this piece will be very happy.