Ardor (2008) Marte Fantasy Smooth Egg with Silver and Lucite (Estate)

Like many Italian workshop brands, Ardor pipes are a family affair. The name itself is an acronym of Angelo Rovera and Dorelio Rovera, father and son pipe makers who created the brand in 1972. The Rovera family’s history with pipes goes back much further, however, as Angelo’s own father, Francesco, had previously established the Sociedade Rovera pipe company with his brothers in 1911. All Ardor pipes are completely hand-made from briar that has been seasoned for at least 4-5 years, and the brand is noteworthy for its playful and innovative approaches to design. As a result, Ardor pipes are both quintessentially Italian, while also being somewhat different, having a style that is wholly their own.

In recent years, the high-end Italian pipe scene has seen an influx of artisans who are not only influenced by Italian-style pipe making, but also Danish-style pipe making. The Roveras’ Ardor pipes were somewhat ahead of the curve in that regard, as there’s been a Danish tinge to them for decades, albeit in a way that is unique even compared to the many similarly inclined Italian artisan pipes made today.

This pipe, for example, was made by Dorelio Rovera all the way back in 2008, and while it displays a thoroughly Scandi-style approach to shaping and finishing in its approach to golden contrast egg, its liberal use of ornamentation ensures that it won’t be mistaken for anything but an Ardor. The Roveras have their own name for the silver and Lucite motif used on pipes like this one, the Fantasy, which was created by Dorelio Rovera in the 2000s.

The condition is great. Lightly smoked, and well preserved. This pipe comes with its original box and sleeve.

Details:

Length: 6.1″ / 154.9mm

Bowl Width: 0.85 / 21.59mm

Bowl Depth: 2.01″ / 51.05mm

Weight: 2.1oz / 62g