Kai Nielsen: Smooth Horn (Jewel of Denmark) (B) Tobacco Pipe

A second-generation Danish pipe maker, Kai Nielsen is the son of Viggo Nielsen, who helped found the marque Bari in 1948. Kai Nielsen often spent time around the workshop in his childhood, and began working there at 21 years of age. Over 50 years later, Kai Nielsen is still making pipes. Nielsen makes traditional shapes with a classic Danish style, evidenced by many of his pipe's gestural profiles and supple bowls. Few pipe makers have more experience than Kai Nielsen, and his lifelong skill is evident in each pipe he crafts.

This Horn by Kai Nielsen showcases his exquisite faceting skills, as two facets run along the flanks of the stummel, curving ninety degrees in the process. Furthermore, these facets highlight a sweeping cross grain pattern, whereas the fore and aft are freckled with birdseye, both of which are dressed in an auburn smooth finish. Out back, the thick acrylic stem bends back downwards, creating a comfortable clench and accentuating the gestural profile. Additionally, the broad, elliptical rim houses a capacious chamber #8212; its depth especially notable due to the pipe's compact length.