Frank Axmacher Sandblasted Bent Apple (A) (2009) (Unsmoked) Tobacco Pipe

Frank Axmacher began pipemaking as an autodidact, though he already a foundation in creating three-dimensional forms from his career as a stonemason and sculptor. He would later pick up lessons from both Rainer Barbi and Tom Eltang, and I think the latter's influence in particular can be seen in the flowing gesture, high-set bowl, and smoothly flaring, deep-transitioned shank of this piece. He did quite an impressive bit of work combining the design with briar's own natural elements as well, resulting in a ring grain that follows the shaping at play harmoniously.

- Eric N. Squires