Ken Dederichs: Smooth Bent Dublin Tobacco Pipe

Ken Dederichs' background in architecture readily presents itself in this bent Dublin offering from the Germany-based, Japanese carver. It presents an array of intricate, detailed lines that combine to form an impressive composition where each element was carefully considered and included to elevate the entire piece. I particularly admire the rim on this Dublin and how it's dramatically different when both side are examined in profile. The left side of the rim rises higher than the right, creating asymmetry and disguising the plateau that adorns the right side. The dimpled plateau is rugged and dark, adding an organic touch to the piece that doesn't distract from the impressive shaping and gorgeous grain. A series of ridgelines travel along the shank and effortlessly blend with the bowl's shaping, with a trio of ridgelines wrapping around the heel and ascending the bowl's fore to meet the ridgeline that encircles the broad rim. Along with the stellar shaping and complex line work, the grain orientation on this pipe is fascinating. Lively patterns of flame grain rise in concert with the bowl's flare and are especially captivating along the right side where those tendrils seemingly erupt into the rim's plateau. It's a striking design with plenty of intriguing elements and remains cohesive and well-executed.