Lasse Skovgaard: Smooth Bent Dublin with Horn Tobacco Pipe

Lasse Skovgaard is the son of Danish pipe maker Benni Jørgensen and began crafting pipes at the age of 16 before taking a job at the renowned W.Ø. Larsen workshop at 18, where he continued to hone his skills. His skills developed quickly, working with venerated carvers such as Teddy Knudsen, and he eventually began producing pipes that bear his name in 2004 at the age of 20. His work is often marked by the fluid grace and sleek curvature that defines the work of so many Danish artisans, with Skovgaard carrying on that tradition but imbuing his designs with his own eclectic sensibilities. He's rightfully earned his spot as one of Denmark's premiere craftsman, and it's easy to see why when looking at this bent Dublin.

The bent Dublin is a design that the Danish artisan returns to again and again, utilizing the shape to showcase his penchant for slender, graceful curves. Deeply bent through the slim shank, this piece strikes a trim, sinuous profile, with an elegant presence in hand. The flared rim and gentle taper often associated with the shape are present, though the rim has been stylized here, rising at the flanks in a curve that sees the outline dip at the fore and aft, creating a look that's utterly unique. The shank is extended by a lengthy accent of horn that flares out into the base of the black vulcanite saddle stem which it's been paired to. This stem's smart curvature ensures a comfortable smoking posture, and its slanted base adds some extra dynamism to this already lively silhouette. The pale hues of the horn bridge the stark, dark color of the stem to the warmer tones of the stummel, making for a vivid, stylish palette. Dressing this pipe is a vivid auburn stain that reveals dense striations of flickering flame grain dancing around the bowl, while the broad rim is awash with stunning birdseye.