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 boasts an impressive portfolio and is known for his refined, classically Danish carving style, which is on full display with this elegant bent Apple.

The plump bowl of this offering stands poised at the end of a sweeping, sinuous shank-and-stem arrangement. The stem is particularly lengthy, and this length, combined with its gracile bend, offers a relaxed smoking posture in hand, reducing the arm movement required to raise the pipe to the palate. A pale, trim accent band rests at the junction between shank and stem, adding a pop of contrast to the otherwise rich, warm color palette. A vibrant auburn stain dresses the stummel, complementing the burgundy tones of the cumberland stem and accentuating the briar's gorgeous grain, which has earned this piece a Jewel of Denmark grade at the "B" level.