Smooth Calabash with Bamboo Tobacco Pipe

The Calabash shape has seen something of a comeback in recent years, with artisans all over the world translating the traditional gourd form into the realm of briar and vulcanite (and often myriad other materials as well). The market's far from saturated however, as no two pieces are ever alike. This example from Roman Kovalev takes a more organic approach, featuring a strong taper to the bowl, which then sweeps into the low-set transition and angular style of gnarly bamboo shank. The flared, plateau-crowned shank end is an excellent touch as well, completing the rhythm of of the knuckles while also driving home the organic flair initiated by the bowl — which in turn is echoed in the portions of plateau kissing the domed rim. For all its wild style and organicism, it's also a fully functional rendition of the Calabash, as the cap can be removed to reveal a vast condensation chamber within the bowl. Its light weight and compact length should make it easy to clench in the jaw, and the feel in hand is pretty natural as well.

- Andrew Wike