GBD Pre-1980s Grotesque Rusticated Panel Estate Briar Pipe, French 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.

“Grotesque” may seem like an odd choice to name a pipe, though in the context of this one, it’s neither unprecedented, nor without a deliberate [double] sense. Very early, pre-transition quaint shaping made by Barling bore the name “Freak,” having also received additional, manual shaping after their bowls were turned. In the case of this one, however, I would imagine “Grotesque” refers not only to the unorthodox rustication employed, but to a type of stone architecture, from which the modern French and English senses of the “grotesque” derive. It’s certainly an interesting pipe and, given that it was made in France and that its stem features a metal “GBD” inlay, it would look to be a pre-1980s, pre-Cadogan Investments merger make.

The condition is good. Some darkening to the rim.

Details:

Length: 6.5″ / 165.1mm

Bowl Width: 0.81 / 20.57mm

Bowl Depth: 1.37″ / 34.79mm

Weight: 1.9oz / 56g