GBD Giant Rusticated Bent Brandy Estate Briar Pipe, English Estates

Description

GBD was one of several prominent examples of a French pipe brand that, due to certain circumstances, became a maker most associated with classic ‘British’ pipes. Founded in 1850 by the French trio Ganneval, Bondier & Donninger, the brand was bought by English company Oppenheimer at the beginning of the 20th century, who opened factories in London and Paris to meet an increasing demand for the make’s high-quality and highly desirable pipes. Partly owing to the make’s inventive, yet traditional shapes, and partly due to the high standards of their production, GBD pipes are particularly coveted by collectors, as well as those who simply appreciate classic, well-made smoking instruments.

Here’s a GBD you don’t see everyday: a “Giant.” Though it isn’t as large as the series name implies, it is very distinct compared to other GBDs, on account of it being rusticated in a style far closer to the Italian makes than those of England or France. I guess you could even call it a “GBD Rock Briar.”

The condition is good. There’s some rim darkening, and one or two handling marks, but this won’t interfere with the pipe’s smoking properties.

 

Details:

Length: 5.8″ / 147.3mm

Bowl Width: 0.84 / 21.33mm

Bowl Depth: 1.78″ / 45.21mm

Weight: 2.0oz / 58g