Chris Asteriou: Sandblasted Liverpool with Silver and Horn (15/20) Tobacco Pipe

Throughout Chris Asteriou's diverse portfolio, the Greek artisan's appreciation for classic forms is readily apparent and well-represented. From Billiards, to Lovats, and Dublins, Asteriou's respect for traditional shapes is on full display as well as his sublime shaping skills and exquisite accent work. This Liverpool offering deftly demonstrates those aforementioned characteristics and is a thoroughly traditional interpretation. The Liverpool is closely related to the Lovat shape but instead of a saddle stem, the Liverpool utilizes a tapered mouthpiece which serves to continue the lines of the shank. It's a small change but one that makes a significant difference, with the tapered stem visually seeming more a part of the stummel whereas a saddle stem directs attention toward the bowl. And while the bowl on this piece is classically shaped and expertly engineered, the silverwork and stem work deserve plenty of praise.

The Greek carver has finished this piece in a crisp, jet-black sandblast with cross grain rippling across the bowl's fore and aft and specks of birdseye along the flanks. As with many of his other sandblasted pieces, Chris has chamfered the innermost section of the rim and stained it a warm walnut hue. The elongated shank gradually tapers toward the shank end, terminating in a sterling silver band which bears his initials along with a pair of beadlines. What's particularly noteworthy and special about this composition is the horn stem. It's not only the first time we've received an Asteriou pipe with a horn mouthpiece, but it's also the first time Chris has crafted a pipe with a horn stem, period. A steel tenon adds reinforcement, while the horn's creamy hues work in tandem with the bright silver to offer some tasteful contrast against the stummel's stain. It's a truly stunning piece from Asteriou, showcasing his ability to make a classic shape all his own while elevating it to greater heights.