Jared Coles: Sandblasted Tomato with Horn (1953) Tobacco Pipe

In my personal experience, Jared Coles' Tomato shapes most often incorporate an expanding, upward-inclined shank in Ivarsson-esque tradition. Rarely, though, we find a piece, such as this sandblasted straight pipe, in which the shank maintains diameter until meeting the accent. Here that accent is a wonderfully grained and softly tapered fitment of horn, into which pushes the short saddle mouthpiece.

The rim is smooth, but because of the dynamic contrast of the stain, projects a visual impression of texture until running a finger over the gently rounded introduction to the tobacco chamber. The blast is medium deep and responsive under the finger pads, and the piece sits with able confidence. It's a remarkable composition from a carver I've been watching for a long while, enjoying his creative interpretations for the benefit of all interested in pipe design.