Talamona L'Artigiano Bent Billiard 111

• Overall Length: 136mm
• Overall Height: 39mm
• Bowl Height: 39mm
• Bowl Width: 38mm
• Bore: 19mm
• Filter: None
• Weight: 38g
• Pipe Bag Included

There's a fair bit of character in this Talamona, and most of it comes from the briar itself. The bowl has a deep, reddish-brown stain, with little pits, grooves and rough patches scattered across the surface. It's the sort of finish that rewards a closer look. The wood has been allowed to keep some of its character rather than being polished into submission.

Then there's that mouthpiece. A splendid streak of glowing orange, almost like barley sugar held up to the light. It brings a cheerful bit of colour to an otherwise rather earthy pipe.

The 111 has a stout, rounded billiard bowl, a gently rising shank and a comfortable-looking curve to the stem. It's a handsome, slightly unconventional take on a familiar shape.

Italian pipe makers have never been terribly frightened of a bit of personality, and this one makes a convincing case for it.