Ser Jacopo: Unigena Sandblasted Paneled Bent Dublin (S2) (D) (Maxima Maxima Maxima) Tobacco Pipe

The Maxima series from Ser Jacopo designates pipes of magnified size, with even one stamp denoting a hearty piece, though, on rare occasion, we have encountered pipes with up to eight of the magnitudinous markings. This paneled bent Dublin possesses three, and even then is a substantial hunk of briar, weighing over a quarter of a pound and filling the hand readily. The stem is subtly curved and paneled, leading to a stretch of square shank that angles downward and flares into the transition and heel with flat surfaces, creating ridgelines on left and right flanks. The apex of the heel is set reasonably far rearward, aligned closer to the aft portion of the rim than the middle of the chamber, and sweeps dramatically upward. At the the panels of the bowl start, four in total, with the two at the flanks being nicely rounded for a touch of extra curves in the hand. The sinuous silhouette of this pipe is nothing short of alluring, the outline possessed of a decided momentum, its gradual descent and sharp upturn imbuing it with a striking dramatic flair. The stummel is finished in a crisp auburn sandblast which reveals some handsome grain throughout, with rippling growth rings cascading down the bowl as the smooth nomenclature panel and briar stem accent provide contrast.