German Estates: Frank Axmacher Sandblasted Freehand Sitter with Bamboo Tobacco Pipe

One of the most unique Sitters I've come across, this offering from Frank Axmacher sits in such a way that the shank and stem stand almost completely vertical. Instead of planing the heel horizontally, Frank has done so at a 45 degree angle, tilting the piece forward when on a flat surface (though not too far as to risk spilling any ash or leaf from the bowl). The result is twofold: the bowl and shank sit in an acute "V" orientation, and when in a smoking position, the heel tapers to a sharp ridgeline for an Acorn-like aesthetic.

Going along with the Acorn-esque design, the two knuckles of bamboo at the shank give the piece a decidedly organic disposition. Unlike an Acorn, however, the bowl features supple ridgelines on either flank, similar to a Cobra design. Such a feature also makes for an incredibly comfortable in hand feel. It's all dressed in a conservative, Danish style sandblast underneath which birdseye is clearly evident along the bowl's fore, while cross grain makes up the ridged flanks. For a piece as long as this is, it's surprisingly lightweight, ensuring a comfortable clench when it's not sitting down. Excellent work from the German carver.