Sandblasted Bent Apple with Silver (S5) (2550) Tobacco Pipe

A broad bowl is joined to a tapering shank-and-stem combination through a transition that provides subtle cheeking in harmony with the unique shaping of this pipe. There's more going on here, though, as is expected of an artisan of the caliber of Larry Roush. The rim is flat and wide, signalling the thick chamber walls that will insulate the tobacco, and the top of the transition is very high, attaining more than half of the height of the bowl. The gently curved taper of the shank and stem reveal a sinuous nature, starting out broad of cross section at the bowl and descending to minimal proportions at the stem, which is abbreviated in length but essential to the overall shape.

A sterling silver accent separates shank from stem in bright contrast, the stem revealing variegated patterns of sand, brown, and black in a gentle downturn that gives the piece a natural and organic disposition. The blast is stunning, with deep, undulating waves of ring grain circling the bowl and providing easy texture in the palm. Such a broad and dominating bowl should not seem so organically inclined, but it does, thanks to Larry's skills as a designer, his vision for modern shaping, and his remarkable execution of complex craftsmanship.