Smooth Bent Apple (Jewel of Denmark) (B) Tobacco Pipe

Kai Nielsen, son of Viggo Nielsen, founder of the Bari pipe factory, entered the world of pipe making in his teen years when he began working part-time at his father's factory. At the age of 21, he became a full-time employee — but that was just the beginning. Today, after years of honing his craft, he's a respected artisan with an impressive portfolio and is known for his refined, classically Danish carving style.

The latest offering to showcase Nielsen's refined style, this bent Apple presents with plump proportions and an organic, flowing composition. The bowl's plump curves fill the palm nicely, lending the piece a comforting in-hand presence. Behind the bowl, the shank displays convex curvature and is framed by soft ridgelines on either side, adding a touch of rigidity to the piece. The top of the shank remains characteristically round, and the paneled underside also rounds out at the heel, melding seamlessly with the bowl's plump curves. A hearty half-saddle stem joins the shank, its broad shoulders extending the line of the shank and offering plenty of space to comfortably drape a digit. The burgundy hue of the cumberland stem pairs beautifully with the stummel's smooth, lustrous finish and rich chestnut stain, both of which highlight the briar's handsome grain. Thanks to its excellent grain and shaping, this piece has earned Nielsen's Jewel of Denmark grade at the "B" level, designating it as some of the artisan's best work.