Henri Sorensen: Sandblasted Bent Dublin Tobacco Pipe

Like many artisan makers, Henri Sørensen entered the craft through his love of pipe smoking, a hobby he shared with his brother. Originally a glazier by trade, Sørensen had always held an affinity for old-school craftsmanship, and being used to working with his hands, it didn't take long before the Danish carver decided to make a pipe of his own. He draws inspiration from Denmark's rich pipe-making history, channeling the spirit of the Danish greats while imbuing his designs with a style that is singularly his own.

Though it measures less than five inches long, this piece boasts a pronounced angularity, with the totality of the shape possessed of a check mark-like pose that calls to mind the shaping of old Dan Pipes. This angular motif is furthered by the heel: a firm, pointed spur that's oriented toward the transition. Said heel marks the start of a dramatic flare, with the bowl's walls rapidly expanding into a broad, smoothly polished rim. The bowl's swift expansion is coupled with a subtle forward cant that's balanced by the aft's steep arch. Dressing this piece is a crisp, ruddy sandblast that highlights a wealth of impressive grain throughout the stummel.