Chris Asteriou: Smooth Long Shank Bent Apple Tobacco Pipe

Drawing from his background as an architect and industrial designer, Chris Asteriou fashions a variety of attractive pipes, ranging from modernized shape-chart standards to more distinctive Freehand designs. Either way, his pipes always impress with their stylish finishes and refined shaping, both of which are on display with this stunning bent Apple.

Supple and poised, the bowl here rises from a wide, lifted heel and tapers from base to rim, resulting in an elegant curvature along the bowl's insulating walls and a broad waistline that conforms naturally to the hand. In contrast to the bowl's steady taper, the shank bringing up the rear flares subtly from the low-set transition to a wide face. The shank's pronounced expansion captures the eye and accentuates the shank's muscular build and protracted length. A contrast-stained smooth finish dresses the stummel and makes a showing out of the lush birdseye and sweeping flame grain that covers the bowl. Refined, elegant, and quite muscular, this piece offers all the flourishes and captivating detail one has come to expect from Asteriou.