Pipe Tristan Granite Rusticated Army Mount Billiard Handmade Briar Pipe, New

Description

I used to say that Pipe Tristan’s Tristan Lefebvre was part of a “new wave” of “up-and-coming” artisans from France, the very birthplace of the briar pipe. But that description doesn’t do him justice these days. Lefebvre isn’t so much a “part” of the latest generation of French artisans as the craftsman leading the charge; likewise, he is no longer “up-and-coming,” but has already secured himself a place alongside historic compatriots such as Alain Albuisson, Paul Lanier, and Pierre Morel Sr and Jr. Lefebvre does still, however, credit the same major influences upon his pipe-making. These include as modern greats from Italy and Denmark like Castello and Tom Eltang, as well as more unique sources of inspiration, such as the centuries-old hunting pipes native to Germany’s southern Bavarian region. As such, Tristan is equally at home crafting his own spin on the ’55,’ the hawbill, or the Danish Dublin, as he is reviving the Ulmer Kloben – when he isn’t inventing his own shapes, that is.

I’ve been so impressed with Tristan Lefebvre’s pipes recently that I decided to show his work to an acquaintance of mine, Les Wood, who used to make Ferndown pipes. Not only did Les praise the finishing on them, but on this one he was similarly taken by how seamless its army mount is—which is something indeed from a renowned master of both rustication and silversmithing. The pipe itself is indeed very nice, and a distinct take on the black and silver “dress” motif commonly found in classic English pipes. While slightly above average length, it’s not at all heavy, and veterans may find it a comfortable enough clencher. Even if not, Tristan’s signature Granite rustication makes this one as much a joy to hold as it is to behold.

 

Details:

Length: 6.5″ / 165.1mm

Bowl Width: 0.78 / 19.81mm

Bowl Depth: 1.75″ / 44.45mm

Weight: 1.4oz / 42g