Ken Dederichs: Sandblasted Tomato Tobacco Pipe

Originally from Japan and now based in Germany, artisan Ken Dederichs blends Japanese and Danish design influences to create a distinctive portfolio of pipes characterized by muscular proportions and organic, Freehand-like shaping. Born in 1973, Ken began his career as a professional architect before discovering his passion for pipe making in 2005. After relocating to Germany in 2007, he made the transition to full-time pipe making and with guidance from experienced collectors and fellow pipe makers, Ken refined his craft, taking pride in shaping briar into functional works of art that bring enjoyment to others. This Tomato boasts the fluid, flowing lines expected from Dederichs' portfolio, rendered in compact proportions that exude organic muscularity. With a forward canted posture, the bowl's rounded shape fits comfortably in the hand, its plump, gently curving walls flowing from the gracefully lifted heel to the taught, asymmetrical rim. A subtly pinched transition leads to a sturdy shank that flares outward into a domed face, that mirrors the bowl's soft, organic curvature. A slender, curved stem tops off the composition, accentuated by a crisp expansion ring at its base. The stummel wears an inky sandblast that accentuates intricate growth rings running up the side of the bowl, while the smooth stummel and shank face showcase beautiful swirls of birdseye, creating a striking contrast.