Mike Sebastian Bay: Smooth Pickaxe 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.

This Pickaxe is handsome showcase of Bay's shaping style, which favors elegant lines and soft, understated curves. As is traditional for the form, the bowl here flares from its firm, pointed heel to its broad, smooth rim. The sharply defined heel adds a touch of angularity to the otherwise sinuous form, and naturally draws the eye toward the transition, which marks the start of the shank-and-stem arrangement's upward climb. The shank and stem provide a pronounced gesture to the shape's profile, and promote a comfortable smoking posture. An auburn smooth finish dresses the stummel and highlights a handsome showing of flame grain around the bowl, while an accent of musk ox horn adorns the junction and ties the entire composition together with a touch of vibrant color.