Radice: Clear Billiard Tobacco Pipe

A unique take on the straight Billiard from Radice, this pipe presents with a striking combination of shank and stem whose slender outline further reinforces the presence of the bowl. A wide transition gives way to a tapering shank, its sleek diminution met by a similarly tapering stem of pale white acrylic, the pair extending the reach of this composition while keeping the weight rather light. Up front, the bowl stands atop a firm heel and grows tall, sleekly tapering walls up to a flat rim, the aforementioned taper making for a comfortable feel in hand. Dressed in the workshop's Clear finish, the stummel here showcases a wealth of windswept flame grain from beneath its warm, honey-auburn stain, with birdseye swirling at the rim and heel.

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.