Mike Sebastian Bay: Smooth Billiard with Musk Ox Horn Tobacco Pipe

Looking for someone to repair his father's old pipes, Mike Sebastian Bay found himself in the workshop of Tom Eltang. After talking, the two men quickly bonded, and Eltang offered Bay an apprenticeship. Bay accepted and set about learning everything he could from the elder carver. Overtime, Bay refined his craft as he studied shaping, drilling, engineering, and finishing. Now, Michael Sebastian Bay is one of Denmark's most accomplished young artisans, and his work is sought after by discerning collectors from all over the world.

Lengthy and sleek, this Billiard boasts a tall, supple bowl that's posed at the fore of a trim, arrow-straight shank-and-stem arrangement. In typical Danish fashion, the bowl tapers from its plump, rounded heel to its taut rim, and as it does, it produces a low-set waistline that indexes the fingers quite naturally. The lean shank and stem stretch out back in a steady line that keeps the form understated and streamlined profile, allowing the shape's finish, grain, and accent to take center stage. The finish here comprises a smooth polish and an auburn stain, both of which highlight a gorgeous showing of flame grain and birdseye throughout the stummel. An accent of musk ox horn adorns the junction and ties the entire composition together with a touch of vibrant color.