Vitale - n. 158
Elegant and slender, this handcrafted Piero Vitale pipe features a distinctive Pencil shape, with a tall, tapered bowl and an exceptionally long, slim shank. The briar sourced from Mimmo Romeo, purchased in 2023/2024 and naturally seasoned, displays spectacular flame grain in warm reddish-brown tones. Its smooth finish with Danish oil and carnauba wax enhances the depth and contrast of the natural grain.
The slender shank features an elegant bovine horn extension, complemented by a brass reinforcement ring. A gently curved black SEM ebonite mouthpiece completes the design, creating a refined balance of materials and proportions.
One of the most remarkable features of this Piero Vitale creation is hidden within its construction. To strengthen the exceptionally thin shank, the pipemaker has inserted an internal ebonite tube running along its entire length. This ingenious solution improves structural strength while avoiding metal, which could contribute to retaining heat in the smoke. A thoughtful detail that highlights the maker's technical expertise and attention to craftsmanship, making this Pencil as interesting in its construction as it is in its appearance.