Lasse Skovgaard: Sandblasted Bent Apple with Antler Tobacco Pipe

The son of esteemed pipe maker Benni Jørgensen, Lasse Skovgaard has been around pipes his whole life. At 16 he started making tampers for W.Ø. Larsen; at 19 he was crafting their esteemed Straight Grain pieces. Encouraged by family friend Teddy Knudsen, Skovgaard went into the business of pipe making for himself. Skovgaard's aesthetic choices draw on his father's and Knudsen's, but his talent for organic shaping and superb finishing contributes to his distinct style.

This bent Apple by Lasse Skovgaard uses asymmetry to great effect. Observing the pipe from the right flank, it seems like a traditional bent Apple, with a subtly cheeked transition and a plump bowl. However, when observed from the left flank, a ridgeline extends from the shank end to the rim, giving the pipe a geometric profile while the transition subtly cradles the bowl. Furthermore, the ridgeline is quite pronounced, creating an intriguing in-hand feel that pairs well with the rugged texture of the jet-black sandblast. However, the sandblast does not dress the entire stummel, as the trim rim and the shank end both wear an auburn smooth finish for textural and visual contrast. Additionally, an antler accent continues to enhance the contrast, as its bright white hues create a vivid contrast both with the stummel and the vulcanite stem. Much like the asymmetrical shaping, the pipe combines disparate colors in a similar fashion, embracing contrast to create a unique pipe that provides an alluring appeal from any angle.