Displaying fine cross-hatching and a deep, geometrical patterning that is endlessly intriguing, it's easy to see why pipe smokers and carvers both have been intrigued by the grain patterns of morta — semi-petrified bog oak — especially when sandblasted as seen here in on this Il Duca Rhodesian. More loosely streamlined and dynamic in disposition than its English counterpart, Max Rimensi's rendition of the Rhodesian sees a saucer-like bowl seemingly ready to shoot forward — propelled by a shank that forgoes the usual round shape in favour of an oval one, and a strong taper toward the mouthpiece that gives it a sleek silhouette. Though adorned with a crisp ridgeline below the domed rim per the classic form, it does also forego the traditional beadline/s usually seen on the Rhodesian shape, all the while maintaining a low waistline to add even further to the piece's sleek profile. It's topped by a gorgeous Cumberland stem with black and ruby striated lines and is dressed in a dark sandblast for a minimalist, reserved colour palette.

— Adam M O'Neill