Michael Parks: Sandblasted Canadian (IV.17) Tobacco Pipe

With a deep, grain-coaxing sandblast applied to such a trim-lined classic, this briar instantly shows its origin to anyone familiar with the work of Michael Parks. Indeed, the carver's deft hand at the blasting cabinet, coupled with his penchant for breathing new life into forms of the old English school is known on multiple continents. This long-shanked Canadian boasts quite a craggy display of rippling rings, stained a warm reddish-brown, while Michael opted for a stem showcasing a brindle pattern that evokes the look of natural marble to my eye. And at nearly seven inches in length, it's not exactly petite, but at just over 26 grams, it should likely fare well clenched in the jaw. Lovely work from Michael Parks here.

- Daniel Bumgardner