Radice: Rind Bent Billiard (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 particular piece has received a single "G" stamp, and it offers plenty of substance to appreciate in hand. Reminiscent of the Cherrywood thanks to its firm, flattened heel, this bent Billiard is an especially sturdy take on the shape from Radice, presenting with a bold sense of muscularity. A wide transition here gives way to a tapering, high-kicking shank met by a sleek, smartly downturned stem of black acrylic: the pair's lilting posture pulling a good deal of visual weight away from the bowl. The shank and stem are poised for comfortable smoking, offering a tempting posture for jaw hanging and adding a distinctive sense of verticality to the composition. The bowl stands on the aforementioned flat heel and starts a measured taper up to its flat, smooth rim, the light stain of which contrasts the rich rustication that dresses the rest of the stummel.

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.