Radice: Rind Lovat (G) Tobacco Pipe

Radice's "G" stamp designates pipes that are larger than their regular production pieces, usually considerably so, with multiple G's denoting larger and larger pipes with each stamp. This Lovat boasts a single "G" stamp, and it appears as if most of this enhancement has gone toward the shank. Said shank catches one's attention immediately, magnifying the extended reach of the shank which its namesake shape requires and lending this pipe a reach greater than six and a half inches. A wide transition gives way to the shank, which tapers gently toward a sleek saddle stem, and this aft side pairing does well to balance the presence of the bowl. A firm heel supports the bowl, balancing thick, cylindrical walls as they rise to a flat rim, the thick substance here giving the dark rustication of the Rind finish plenty of room to display rugged texture.

Luigi Radice was born in 1939 and began his career working with briar in 1961, finding employment at the venerable Castello workshop. While working for the now legendary brand, Luigi met Giuseppe Ascorti, and the two left together in 1968 to found Caminetto, where he stayed for 12 years, before departing to establish Radice in 1980. With help from his son, Gianluca, and his father, Paolo, Luigi began producing pipes in a striking neoclassical style which quickly amassed acclaim from enthusiasts of such stylized works. Luigi was later joined by his other son, Marzio, and the family-run workshop has since become known not just for their unique take on the neoclassical style of pipe making, but their singular accenting and finishing techniques.