Yang Kun: Smooth Bent Dublin (Signature) (2298) Tobacco Pipe

Originally a makeup artist for television and film, Yang Kun has applied his aesthetic sensibilities to pipe making since 2012. Over the last decade, Kun has shown impressive talent, drawing on the work of the Danish masters as well as his Chinese contemporaries to create a unique style that blends striking features of both, particularly in his use of bamboo and sleek ridgelines.

This bent Dublin represents some of Kun's best work, having earned his highest Signature grade designation. The shaping on display is both angular and organic, featuring a broad, domed rim with a subtle rippling effect, delineated by a solid ridgeline atop sharply tapered walls that culminate in defined heel spur that protrudes from below an elongated transition. Out back a rounded triangular shank curls subtly upward to meet a finely hand-cut saddle stem of black vulcanite, slightly bent for easy clenching. Dressed in a handsome natural finish, the stummel boasts stunning straight grain around the bowl, with a striking display of birdseye at the rim and heel.