Danish Estates: Tom Eltang Smooth Nautilus (Snail) (2004) (Unsmoked) Tobacco Pipe

One of many iconic shapes originated by Danish carver extraordinaire Bo Nordh, the Nautilus continues to be rendered by artisans worldwide. This particular piece is from Tom Eltang, who has designated this as one of his most prestigious, top-echelon Snail grades, second to his ultimate "M" stamp. More often seen in his "Mini" configurations, this is a full-size rendition.

This organic, asymmetric pipe displays wavy sloping along the rather oval-shaped rim, launching the soft curvature that dominates this sweeping piece. The robust bowl's surging sense of forward momentum is informed by its lifting heel and the sinuous, backward curl of the tapering shank that resembles the tail of the sea mollusk for which this piece is named. Tom's nearly unparalleled skill at maximizing the grain potential of each briar block is certainly realized here, with beautiful birdseye saturating the pipe's underside and stunning cross grain seen along the flanks, all beneath one of the Danish artisan's older mahogany contrast stains. Presented unsmoked.