Bruno Nuttens: Handmade Smooth Tulip (AA) Tobacco Pipe

While he was born in Belgium, Bruno Nuttens has resided in France for nearly 20 years. He started his pipe-making career by restoring estate pipes while crafting some of his own in his spare time, and with the assistance and advice of pipe maker Pierre Morel, Nuttens was later able to accrue the skills and equipment to propel his career. Nuttens' portfolio features both traditionally-inclined pieces and more expressive designs, Nuttens' portfolio features both traditionally-inclined pieces and more expressive designs, with the latter showcased in this rendition of the French artisan's signature Tulip design. As part of Nuttens' Handmade series, this piece was carved and finished completely by hand and displays his unique creative inclinations. The Tulip shape is one that exudes comfort all throughout its design choices. It features a lean, Acorn-like bowl standing with a subtly forward-urging posture, the figure fitting naturally in the hand as its walls flare gently from the pointed heel toward the softly inflated rim. A slender shank and tapered stem join to the bowl out back, the pair offering a sleek profile and lightweight presence overall. Dressed in a rich chestnut stain, the stummel displays handsome grain throughout.