Smooth Bent Dublin (Snail) Tobacco Pipe

The bent Dublin shape is broadly defined enough to allow for a number of creative variations, and Tom Eltang's profile does well to showcase the diverse freedom of the classic form. His versions range from the sharply angled and firm-heeled pieces to long-shanked iterations and particularly sinuous ones, like the one presented here. While Tom has previously fashioned bent Dublins that resemble the general profile of this particular one, this piece is the first we've received of its kind to have earned Eltang's prestigious Snail grade. Second only to his "M" stamp, Snail pieces comprise the upper echelons of the artisan's portfolio, marked by sublime shaping and immaculate grain orientation.

The shape and grain couldn't align more handsomely on this piece. Even in outline, ignoring the grain, this bent Dublin is superb: The flow from stem to shank beautifully sinuous and continued through the curling transition, heel, flared bowl, and domed rim — the profile calling to mind the traditional Horn and Calabash designs. The piece takes life, though, when the grain is considered: Tongues of flame grain adorn the stummel in consistently splayed streaks, all brought out by singular stain that lets the briar's natural contrast come through. With a ferrule of horn accenting the stem base, this piece fits well into Danish-style conventions, boasting Eltang's mastery of form and finish.