Chris Asteriou: Smooth Billiard with Brass (11/20) Tobacco Pipe

This is the second piece we've received from Chris Asteriou that features brass as an accenting material. It's a slight departure from the sterling silver we most often see from the Greek carver, but the aesthetic fits in well to his penchant for classic English and French design cues — rendered as a domed, durable military mount in this example. I appreciate how Chris has approached this particular brass mount: He could have left it completely smooth, and the pipe would be handsome and appealing, as/is; however, he stepped further and carved a trim beadline at the base. Such a choice adds a hint of visual texture to the accent that captures the eye and visually separates it from the stummel, while still maintaining the composition's aesthetic consistency. Regarding the stummel, the proportions are well-balanced, and the bowl tapers slightly toward the rim, offering supple curves that soften the profile and enhance the feel in hand. Marked by beautiful cross grain, the briar is dressed in a walnut stain that highlights birdseye and brings out the brass.