Partially Rusticated Rhodesian with Horn Tobacco Pipe

Almost a nosewarmer, this light and lithe Rhodesian from Johannes Rasmussen of Suhr features a combination of finishes, including rustication along the section below the beadlines, and smooth, contrast-stained briar above. The rim is ever-so-slightly rounded and the stem is ever-so-slightly curved, emphasizing Johannes' use of very subtle shaping cues for effect. The rustication style is more horizontal than vertical, though not striated, instead revealing a craggy and pleasing texture. The shank is pinched just after the transition, tapering from there to the stem, whose base is accented with horn. Almost weightless, it's the kind of pipe that will slip into a pocket without tugging down the lines of your clothing, even if you're wearing a beekeeper's suit. It's a great presentation, as we should probably expect from the grandson of Anne Julie and Poul Rasmussen.