Ismet Bekler Smooth Cup and Saucer Estate Block Meerschaum Pipe, Unsmoked

In the world of meerschaum, even more so than the world of briar, having one’s name put on one’s works is a privilege granted to very few carvers. Only those who have risen through the ranks of Turkey’s many meerschaum workshops and proved themselves as among the very best in the craft are granted that right, which typically takes form of a quite literal “signing” of the pipe itself. For every Baki, Kenan, Sabri, or Tekin, there are hundreds of craftsmen who will remain anonymous to those who enjoy their work. Ismet Bekler is another such master, having earned his name through his superior meerschaums. In fact, the famous meerschaum pipe distributor CAO was so keen to maintain close ties with Bekler’s work that the company secured it as a trademark. This Bekler is a very interesting, freeform meer, quite unlike most in Turkey’s long history with the medium. I’d be inclined to consider it a “Cup and Saucer” variant of sorts, though with a distinctive asymmetry running through it—almost like a tea set painted by Dali. This pipe is completely unsmoked.   Details: Length: 6″ / 152.4mm Bowl Width: 0.90 / 22.86mm Bowl Depth: 1.70″ / 43.18mm Weight: 1.5oz / 44g