Danish Estates: Anne Julie Partially Rusticated Cherrywood (Unsmoked) Tobacco Pipe

Anne Julie is a legend in the history of Danish pipe making, and her influence and importance in the history of the craft cannot be understated. She was first introduced to the world of pipes through her marriage to renowned maker Poul Rasmussen, though it wasn't until his death that she decided to try her hand at carving pipes, with initial instruction coming from Hans "Former" Nielsen. She is also recognized for noticing a young Tom Eltang's promising skill in 1974, and for offering him an apprenticeship. In terms of her own style, she creates unique and easily identifiable designs that have earned her a dedicated following over the years. To see one of her pieces offered as an estate is extraordinary and a rare opportunity to own one of her highly sought-after works.

This Cherrywood is representative of a shape we've never seen Julie carve until now, making it quite the rare piece, especially since it's the first of either Cherrywood or Poker renditions we've seen from Julie. The shank is mid-set on the bowl, rising slightly above the heel and pushing out with a slender length and slight angle to meet the stem. Said stem is a sleek length of jet-black vulcanite in saddle orientation, one whose bit is extended strikingly in comparison to the shank and bowl, its demure downturn offering a touch of gesture to the shape's profile. The respectable length offered by the shank and stem works to balance the visual weight of the bowl, which sits up front, resting, as the entire pipe does, on a flattened, gently slanted heel. Said bowl is rather short, with a reserved breadth that stays consistent through its cylindrical growth upward, its walls terminating in a domed rim finished smooth. This smooth finish stands out against the understated rustication which dresses the rest of the briar, its softly carved contours stained a dark chestnut hue.