Danish Estates: Former Smooth Billiard with Bamboo (c. 1980-1995) Tobacco Pipe

Hans "Former" Nielsen is a Danish carver who has contributed mightily to the annals of pipe making, bringing more than six decades of experience to his work, and mentoring other budding artisans along the way. Boasting a vast portfolio, his shaping aesthetic is mostly defined by the supple, easy-lined aesthetic promoted by the Danish school of design.

This slightly forward-leaning, tall Billiard features a bowl crafted with a lightly lifting heel, gentle curves and a gradual taper to the rim, all of which are associated with Danish pipe making for the form. An abbreviated shank is extended by two pale knuckles of bamboo, lending further organic appeal and lightening the composition. It's topped by a stylish, ebony-hued stem adorned with a domed base that is a continuation of the bamboo's shaping. The artisan has dressed this piece in a warm contrast stain, accentuating the briar's beautiful grain, including a veritable bevy of birdseye along the heel and feathery flame grain along the flanks.