Smooth Billiard with Karelian Birch Tobacco Pipe

Konstantin Shekita's skill with linework and carving is impressive, but there's a certain challenge to these more conservative, traditional pieces as well. This Billiard fits neatly into a more Danish neoclassic style than some of his other fare, with a slightly tucked transition giving the impression of cheeking to its rounded, smooth-lined bowl. Charmingly abbreviated in length, the space that is available has been used to great effect — bowl and shank alike display thin, tightly-packed strands of straight and flame grain, all finished in a dark, warm stain. At the shank's end, a trim band of karelian birch wood lends a lighter color to the palette, contrasting nicely with both the briar's finish and the jet-black mouthpiece. All in all, it's a classic, straightforward composition, with each detail carefully considered for maximum effect.

- Rachel DuBose