Smooth Wasp (Signature) (03.20) Tobacco Pipe

Wolfgang Becker's Wasp shape is characterized by a pinched waistline that visually separates the flaring shank from the bowl and drooping heel. That said, each rendition from the German carver is distinct in its own right. This particular example is one of my favorite renditions I've ever encountered — being affectionately compact and immaculate in grain orientation. Most appealing to me is how the cross-grain pattern has resulted in horizontal grain across the shank, making it look like a comet's tail as it terminates in dark plateau across the shank face. The bowl's forward momentum accentuates the comet likeness too, seeming to speed through the air. It's a stunning rendition from Wolfgang and has received the artisan's highest Signature-grade stamp.