English Estates: GBD Unique Smooth Freehand (B3) (1960-1980) Tobacco Pipe

GBD, its name deriving from those of its three founders Ganneval, Bondier, and Donninger, originally began life in Paris in 1850. In later years, the company would be sold to A. Oppenheimer & Co. in London in 1902, where it would become an English marque. Dated sometime between 1960 and 1980, this Freehand from GBD boasts an impressive size, measuring nearly eight-and-a-half inches in length. Part of the marque's Unique series, this Freehand features an expressive, almost surreal shaping. A hearty, flaring bowl stands at the fore of the composition with a dynamic forward cant, its thick walls framed by eight smooth facets reaching high from the flat, sure-sitting heel. Stretching far from the transition is a sturdy, square shank, its twisting figure adding a whimsical element to this piece's bold design as it terminates with a slender stem. The stummel wears a warm, auburn stain that highlights handsome grain all throughout.