Chris Asteriou: From Architecture to Pipe Making
Chris Asteriou is an Athenian architect and designer who began crafting pipes in 2007. His work is characterized by traditional English shapes, but with a unique sense of proportion. His shapes are interpretations of the old masters, reduced to the essentials yet retaining crucial details. Organic shaping, bamboo shanks, and accents of silver and Corian define his creations. Corian is a composite material commonly used in sculpture.
Pipes by Chris Asteriou
He uses carefully dried Greek plateau briar, and all mouthpieces are handcrafted from German ebonite. The tenons are turned from the same material. Bamboo pipes are reinforced with stainless steel tubing for additional strength.
Talent and Influence
Chris Asteriou is one of the few Greek pipe makers whose influence extends beyond national borders. Aesthetically, his work is a marvel of attention to detail. With a background in industrial design and architecture, he understands the importance of meticulous detail in overall quality. Although he is a self-taught pipe maker, his formal training has helped him master the challenges of pipe making. Pipe connoisseurs consider him the next high-grade artisan who could become a living legend. Some experts even claim that his English shapes are executed better than the original models.
Inspiration and Style
He draws inspiration from classic English shapes, originating from an era when strict standards for quality and aesthetics were upheld.
Functionality, proportion, and craftsmanship are key qualities for success, and Chris Asteriou intuitively understands this interplay. Hand-cut mouthpieces, complete with tenons made from a single piece, demonstrate his appreciation for the traditional art of pipe making.
Chris Asteriou Pipes as Timeless Collectibles
With their clear and nearly perfect craftsmanship, his works will undoubtedly continue to be admired for their quality in the future. Moreover, it is expected that the prices for his pieces will rise significantly.
