Danish Estates: W. O. Larsen Smooth Billiard with Bamboo (Straight Grain) (10) Tobacco Pipe

The highly venerated W.Ø. Larsen workshop in Denmark schooled, trained and showcased the works of some of the most well-respected artisans in Danish pipe making: Sixten Ivarsson, Poul Rasmussen, Svend Bang, Teddy Knudsen, Tonni Nielsen, Jess Chonowitsch, and Hans "Former" Nielsen — these carvers having either worked there or having had their pipes retailed there. Tonni Nielsen, Jess Chonowitsch, Peter Hedegaard and others were responsible for fashioning pipes of the Select and Straight Grain series, with this straight Billiard being representative of the latter. Likely designed by Chonowitsch, it features the supple curves and softened line work associated with Danish style, the rounded, plump base tapering gently to the rim, its shaping a delight to hold in hand. Two bamboo knuckles are integrated seamlessly into the shank, the spacing between the nodes precise and evenly displayed. This pipe is topped by an expansion dome at the base of the saddle stem that continues the rhythm established by the bamboo for an impressive profile. The stummel is wearing a warm auburn contrast stain, revealing the briar's tight-knit tendrils of straight grain for a delightful pipe certain to appeal to discerning collectors of near perfect Danish pipes.