Dirk Heinemann: Sandblasted Fish with Ox Horn Tobacco Pipe

Though not a traditional pipe chart shape, the Fish has become a standard design among artisan pipemakers, thanks to the pioneering influence of Lars Ivarsson and Jess Chonowitsch. Typically paired to a plump Apple- or Egg-like bowl, the form is characterized most notably by a teardrop shank, creating a ridgeline down one flank. In this rendition from Dirk Heinemann, the German carver presents a compact take on the form. While some iterations gradually dissipate the iconic teardrop line into the bowl, Dirk has here extended it all the way up the bowl's fore to terminate at the rim. The design cue defines the profile's bottom line and adds an accenting firmness that contrasts against the rest of stummel's voluptuous appeal. With a gentle transition and forward-urging inclination, it's a dynamic shape that fits sublimely in hand — while the diminutive proportions provide comfortable clenching. Dressed in a dark chocolate sandblast, the presentation is accented by a smooth, auburn-stained rim and creamy accent of ox horn, shaped effectively to align with the shank's teardrop cross section.