Flávia Rodrigues: Smooth Brandy with Horn Tobacco Pipe

The grain orientation on this Brandy leaves no doubt as to why Flávia Rodrigues opted for a lightly stained finish and low gloss, and it happens to be the first naturally finished pipe we've received from the Brazilian carver. The bowl is enveloped in streaking strands of straight grain while ripples of growth rings wrap around underneath. Typically such rings are subtle and noticeable only upon careful analysis; however, here, Flávia's exceptional choice of briar and shaping skill have highlighted them considerably. Shape-wise, the bowl exudes the plump and firm base we've come to expect from Rodrigues, the heel jutting out at the fore, while the tapered rim and cheeking transition hint at the inspiration she draws from renowned Danish carvers. The broadened base, however, points to her training under Gustavo Cunha of Martelo pipes and also allows this piece to sit comfortably upright. The abbreviated saddle stem lends the form Lovat-eque proportions and the use of a creamy ferrule of horn at the shank end is the perfect complement to the light hue of the natural briar.