Tom Eltang: Smooth Volcano with Boxwood (Snail) Tobacco Pipe

The Volcano is not a shape we see frequently from Tom Eltang, though this is the second we've seen bearing the distinguished Snail grade. It's an interesting take on the shape, with clean lines to its tapering bowl and lifting heel, as well as a vertically compressed shank that allows both the height of the bowl and the length of the pipe to feel emphasized. Indeed, that shank gives it an almost Eskimo-like appearance when viewed from above, nodding to some of his other work with an easy, subtle flare. Pair to that one of Tom's always-recognizable contrast stains, with lively licks of flame grain highlighted all around the bowl and a stem accent of pale boxwood, and this is a piece that is as beautiful as it is comfortable. Truly magnificent work here.