Henri Sorensen: Smooth Bent Billiard 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.

A trim, conservative design, this bent Billiard measures less than five inches long, its compact footprint making it lightweight in hand and easily transportable. Up front, a plump, supple bowl stands atop a subtly lifted heel and grows trim walls that softly taper to a flat rim. A wide transition follows the bowl and sees the start of an ovoid shank that flicks upward and tapers into a demurely curved saddle stem of jet-black vulcanite. A warm smooth finish completes the ensemble and highlights gorgeous flame grain throughout the stummel.