Jody Davis Smooth Shield Cavalier with Mammoth (A16) (Saint) (Halo) (with Stand) (2016) (Unsmoked) Tobacco Pipe

Jody Davis's talent extends far outside the world of pipe making. In addition to crafting stunning pieces that showcase some of the best briar in the world, Davis is also a skilled musician and a part of the Grammy-nominated rock group Newsboys. Davis's skill does not go unnoticed in either industry. Similar to other American craftsmen, Davis typically produces more compact and muscular designs, however, this Shield Cavalier is sizable and rather elaborate. Equally fluid and angular, this pipe puts Davis's linework skill on full display, while its softness brings to mind Danish influences.

Joining the Elephant's Foot and the Ballerina, the Shield was originally created by Bo Nordh. It's defined by its uniquely-shaped bowl, which is crafted to mirror its namesake. Said bowl features a protruding fore wall and a crisp ridgeline across the left and right flanks, which connect at a pointed heel. Here, the rim displays contrasting textures, with the side closest to the bowl's fore showcasing a craggy plateau, while the remainder of the rim is finished smooth to match the rest of the stummel. It's important to note that while this pipe is labeled as such, it is not a true Cavalier, since the bottom of the spur doesn't detach to drain moisture. At the same time, the aft of this pipe does resemble Cavalier features, including the lengthy, lifted shank that rises toward the stem. Before the briar connects to the mouthpiece, however, it is met by an accent of vulcanite and mammoth at the shank's base, with the mammoth adding a light contrast to the rich color palette of the pipe. Protruding from the shank's face is a stylized stem cut from the same inky vulcanite bookending the accent. Said stem completes the pipe's bend toward the bit and provides a satisfying jaw-hanging posture to enjoy. The sleek mouthpiece pairs well with the smooth stummel, which has rightfully earned Davis's highest and rarest grade: the "Halo" designation. Mesmerizing patches of birdseye coat the rim and protruding fore wall of the bowl, while incredible flame grain is displayed across the remaining walls and shank.

This particular piece from Jody Davis comes with a stand crafted from wood and featuring the same mammoth seen along on the pipe's shank. The pipe sits on the stand by way of a magnetic accent at the end of the spur and the top of the stand's angular support arm. The base of the stand is softly triangular and displays the aforementioned mammoth accents at each point. All the while, the stand's fluidity and angularity match that of the pipe.