Smooth Bent Egg (Jewel of Denmark) (C) 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.

Measuring in at a mere 4.37 inches, this pipe takes a fairly common silhouette from the Danish artisan and offers it in charmingly petite proportions. Despite its compact size, the bowl of this bent Egg retains a pronounced plumpness. Out back, a cheeked transition introduces an upward-curving shank framed by ridgelines on either side, adding a touch of rigidity to the otherwise organic, curvaceous composition. The shank is joined by a half-saddle stem of acrylic, whose shoulders cinch inward, offering a comfortable and secure grip. The junction between shank and stem is accented by a trim hardwood accent band, whose pale hue stands out strikingly against the stummel's smooth, chestnut-stained finish. Showcasing handsome grain and skillful shaping, this piece has earned Nielsen's Jewel of Denmark grade at the "C" level, making it quite the commendable piece from the artisan.