While I would mostly classify Scott Thile’s work as Danish inspired, this one strikes me more as Italian neo-classical in origin. It is the slightly tapered shank (a trick right from the Castello playbook) and the tall angular bowl that are giving me that impression. However, the finish, stem work, engineering, and fitting of the ivory celluloid trim band are representative of high-quality artisanal work. Be prepared for some long and deep smokes with this piece, as the tobacco chamber is just over two inches tall. It should be a pleasure to do so though, as this is a relatively lightweight and well-balanced pipe, and it feels great in the hand. For me, the depth, cragginess, and softness of Scott’s sandblasted finish is just about perfect in all regards.

EAV