Dunhill: Imperial Dragon Shell Briar Billiard with Silver (4103) (50/88) Tobacco Pipe

Dunhill's special, limited-edition Imperial Dragon series celebrates the legendary, mythical creature from Chinese and East Asian culture. During China's Imperial Period, emperors used the dragon as a symbol of their strength, authority, and power. This line of pipes was created to inform about the Imperial Dragon's importance within history and Dunhill has done so in an incredibly impressive manner. The singular shape chosen for the series is a Group 4 "03" Billiard, the White Spot's most popular shape, and features some truly stunning accent work.

The most prominent feature is the hand-sculpted dragon windshield that adorns the rim, which has been crafted from sterling silver and features a pair of red rubies for the dragon's eyes. A 10mm band of silver graces the shank end, engraved with the words "Imperial Dragon" on the top as well as dragon symbols along the sides. The stummel has been dressed in the dark, inky sandblast of the Shell Briar finish, its black stem lending it a classic palette while the stummel showcases lovely grain throughout.

Though stamped for 88 total pipes offered in the Shell Briar finish, the series actually consists of only 70 pieces — every number with a numeral "4" having been skipped as it's an unlucky number in Chinese numerology. This piece, serialized as number 70, is presented in a book-style leather presentation box featuring an image along the front that was taken from the original robe of a Chinese emperor, possibly from the Qing dynasty: the last imperial dynasty of China. When opened, the book features a special slot along the left side to accommodate the hand-signed letter of authenticity while the pipe rests safely in its custom-fitted slot. From presentation to craftsmanship, this is truly stunning work from the legendary marque and a must-have for Dunhill collectors and history aficionados.