With rounded lines, soft transitions, and a higher shank-to-bowl thickness ratio, this is not your Grandfather's Lovat. This is definitely a modernist take on the classic, with beefy American proportions to back up its aesthetic boldness. Particularly unique is how the stem is countersunk into the briar, creating a nice bit of visual interest at this junction without relying on the usual trick of adding some kind of adornment. The grain is deep, gnarly, irregular and loaded with character. I am particularly fond of the whorly bit on the right side of the shank. Being straight, thick walled, large but relatively lightweight, and beautifully constructed, this piece is sure to become a comfort pipe- one that you turn to over and over again. Excellent work by Bruce Weaver.

Eric Vitriol