Mark Tinsky: Root Bent Billiard Christmas 2022 (One Star) Tobacco Pipe

Every year since 1986, American carver Mark Tinsky has produced an annual Christmas pipe, making this practice nothing less than a Christmas tradition which has lasted nearly half a century. For 2022, Tinsky has presented us with this tall, sinuous take on the bent Billiard which features a diamond shape stretch of shank and stem. Said stem lifts and arcs out from a transition wide enough to drape a digit, tapering gently as it curves toward the button, lending it both a comfortable smoking posture and a wonderful fluidity. The ridgelines through the shank and stem do well to outline and emphasize the outline here, sharpening the heel and supporting the over two inch tall bowl as it rises to the rim. The soft arc of the bowl's walls lend it a comfortable feel in hand, while its capacious chamber promises leisurely smoking sessions, all in this stylish take on a classic profile, here found in the warm, grain-defining stain of the Root series.