Sandblasted Bent Dublin Tobacco Pipe

A unique approach to the bent Dublin design, this shape is like few we've seen from Chris Askwith. Though it lacks any alternative mediums and maintains a traditional color palette, it still displays the English carver's penchant for innovative shaping paired to perfect engineering. The shank on this piece is truly one of a kind. It's not uncommon for the shank-end to exhibit some flare, especially on a Dublin, which is what Chris has done here, but he's gone a step further in that the base of the saddle stem has been domed. Such an addition, then, creates the illusion that the shank itself rounds near the end, appearing in profile like a bulbous hot pepper, with the mouthpiece protruding like a stem. Frankly, it's a genius way to marry shank and stem. As for the bowl, it's a Danish-inspired design, with its dramatic flare and plateau crown, the latter being truly stunning. For a feature that usually acts only as an accent, Chris has brought this plateau center stage, with its concise cragginess and fluid swirls. The manner in which it's been stained has made the taller points slightly darker than the valleys, resembling the delectable carmelization of a crème brûlée. A delicious piece.