Il Duca: Sandblasted Tomato with Horn (B) Tobacco Pipe

A charmingly organic take on the Tomato, this piece from Il Duca's Max Rimensi presents a plump, forward-leaning and rather bulbous bowl, its supple curves and broad waistline towering over the fore and tucked transition. It's pertly poised at the end of a gradually flaring shank, the softened lines, along with the bowl's curvaceous demeanor, hinting at a Danish influence. The Italian artisan is known for the ease with which he transitions between different design schools, with this rendition being a fine example. The shaping rhythm of the shank face is continued near the base of the slender vulcanite stem via a trim ring of horn, lending a pale accent that contrasts with the remainder of the mouthpiece. The stummel is wearing one of the carver's rustic, contrast-stained sandblasts, the earthy orange and black tones highlighting a multitude of rippling grain that's particularly prevalent on the lower bowl and heel. Another stunning piece from the skillful carver, this pipe boasts numerous elements to admire.