Chris Asteriou: Smooth Billiard with Silver (102/19) Tobacco Pipe

Back in 2016, we received a smooth Billiard with a silver military mount from Chris Asteriou. While the compact dimensions of that piece resemble the rendition seen here, the Greek carver has slightly changed the style. In the same way that Chris combines Danish and English style cues in this Dublin, this Billiard showcases design elements of those two traditions in a way that seamlessly creates a slightly different aesthetic altogether.

The stummel itself, along with the sterling silver mount, hints at vintage Billiards from Comoy's and BBB, the bowl slightly rounded, while the heel is firmer and the transition less defined than Danish versions of the shape. Asteriou has a penchant for classic English designs, and the stummel here fits in well to that convention. The stem, however, resembles more Danish-style pieces. The obvious flare of the saddle's base is a common cue in Danish pipemaking — Hans "Former" Nielsen, in particular, having fashioned a more dramatic example before. In this piece, Chris keeps the flare reserved, blending it with the classic English style of the bowl. Asteriou's silverwork is well-regarded and always impressive. He's stamped the mount here with his initials, and the inclusion of a trim beadline at the base lends just the right amount of unique accenting touch to further separate this commendable piece.