Christophe Wolff “Hyde Park” Sandblasted Squat Bulldog Handmade Briar Pipe, New

Description

France appears to be undergoing something of a revival recently when it comes to its maîtres-pipiers. Chapuis-Comoy & Cie., which manufactures Chacom, Ropp, and other pipes, is, of course, still going strong with two centuries of history at its back. But there is also a growing number of native and expatriate solo pipe makers in France today, many of whom have already demonstrated their prowess on the world stage. These include members of the old guard of French artisanry, such as Pierre Morel and Pierre Voisin, as well the newer generation, comprised of figures such as as Tristan Lefebvre, Joseph Rimbaud, Belgian-born Bruno Nuttens, and English-born Chris Herriot. Christophe Wolff is another example of the latter. A former mechanic and machinist, Wolff would later study aspects of high-grade pipe making with Jean-Luc Rochat and Bruno Nuttens, culminating in the creation of Wolff Pipes. Wolff is highly skilled in both traditional and free-hand pipe making, crafting expert renditions of Anglo-French classics, as well as more modern designs, including his own interpretations of the Morelian fleur.

Just like his mentors, Christophe Wolff is no stranger to the more modern designs of post-war artisan pipe making. But, and again, just like his mentors, he retains a sincere fondness for the classics that is very much evident from his output. This pipe, named in honor of the historic park in London’s Westminster borough, celebrates the iconic, squat bulldog shapes of England’s pipe making powerhouse, such as those of Sasieni, Loewe, and, perhaps most famously, Dunhill. Wolff’s is a genuine treat to behold, with impeccable shaping respective to its subject. But Wolff’s also goes beyond the typical factory make, especially in its finishing, which captures both the ring grain and bird’s-eye of the briar in relief—with the two separated exactly at the bowl’s bead-lines.

Details:

Length: 6.0″ / 152.4mm

Bowl Width: 0.80 / 20.32mm

Bowl Depth: 1.19″ / 30.22mm

Weight: 1.1oz / 34g