American Estates: Michael Lindner Smooth Freehand Sitter (A) (2006) Tobacco Pipe

Michael Linder opened his own tobacco shop in the 1990s, eventually starting to restore pipes there. Before long, he found himself deeply immersed in the craft of pipe making. Linder quickly earned acclaim as one of the most respected American pipe makers, with his naturalistic style shining through in everything from traditional shapes to inventive Freehands. This particular Freehand is a striking example of that signature style, with a free-flowing outline and a broad plateau-crowned rim. The bowl hosts a deep tobacco chamber, with walls that flare dramatically from a sharp, pickaxe-like heel that is flattened at its lower portion, allowing the piece to sit without the need for a pipe stand. A wide transition gives way to an upward arching shank that tapers out toward the stem base, meeting a lengthy cumberland half-saddle stem that's demurely curved for a comfortable smoking posture. Dressing the stummel is a chestnut stain, finished smooth to highlight tight tendrils of flame grain rising up the bowl.