Talamona L'Artigiano Curved Dublin 103

• Overall Length: 154mm
• Overall Height: 47mm
• Bowl Height: 47mm
• Bowl Width: 41mm
• Bore: 20mm
• Filter: None
• Weight: 52g
• Pipe Bag Included

Talamona L'Artigiano Curved Dublin 103

There's something rather satisfying about a well-made Dublin pipe. It's a shape that's been around for donkey's years, and looking at this Talamona L'Artigiano 103, it's easy to see why.

The bowl flares gently towards the rim, with a lovely rounded heel and just enough curve through the shank and mouthpiece to give it a bit of character. The polished reddish-brown briar has some handsome grain running through it, particularly where the wood sweeps around the bowl. A narrow brass-coloured band finishes things off rather nicely.

Talamona is an old Italian name, originally associated with the work of Cesare Talamona in the Varese region. The marque later passed to fellow pipe maker Paolo Croci, who has kept the tradition going. The Italians have always had a good eye for a handsome piece of briar, and this one's certainly done them no disservice.

The L'Artigiano 103 is a lovely, uncomplicated pipe. A comfortable-looking shape, attractive grain and a finish that lets the wood earn its keep.

It'll look just as much at home beside a favourite armchair as it will tucked into a jacket pocket. Although preferably not while it's still lit. That tends to end badly.