Thomas Cristiano Signature FG 99 Rhodesian Estate Briar Pipe, Italian Estates

Description

While originally born in Italy, Thomas Cristiano emigrated to the United States at the age of 16, quickly finding work in the S.M. Frank factory in Long Island. S.M. Frank is a historic American pipe-making company, and at this time Cristiano worked on Frank-owned makes such as Kaywoodie. Later, Cristiano departed to make his own pipes under the Thomas Cristiano name.

While the T. Cristiano brand made affordable, Italian factory briars, Thomas Cristiano himself also carved high-grade, handmade pipes under the “Signature” line, so-called because each was stamped with his signature. This is an example of the latter, though that’s fairly evident just from looking at it. With its mix of pebble-dash rustication and tight, “angel hair” straight grain, its light brown, almost virgin stain, and the touch of sterling silver collaring its shank, it ticks just about every box as far as quintessential Italian pipe design goes. But it also manages to be something unto its own. The juxtaposition of finishes is highly distinct, as is its large Rhodesian frame and ovaline rim. It’s almost bombastic in execution, but maintains the class that—again—Italian high-grades are known for. A genuinely impressive piece.

The condition is great. Some inner rim darkening.

 

Details:

Length: 6.2″ / 157.4mm

Bowl Width: 0.81 / 20.57mm

Bowl Depth: 1.65″ / 41.91mm

Weight: 2.8oz / 82g