Smooth Long Shank Tomato (C) Tobacco Pipe

Massimiliano Rimensi of Il Duca is a master of refined understatement; just look at all the design elements that could so easily have been overdone with this pipe. If pipemaking is taking away only the briar that isn't the pipe, this example proves the rule. A simple bowl, shank and mouthpiece combine for a smooth Tomato with just the slightest of bends. Grain is excellent around the bowl and on the shank, and the flattened rim helps keep the low center of gravity required by the Tomato shape. The shank lifts from the heel, straight all the way to the bit, which is itself slightly bent for a subtle S-curve. It is not a small pipe, measuring at just more than 6 inches, but its length and breadth provide a gravitas that is larger than its physical properties. It's a stunning addition to the Il Duca canon.