Tao: Smooth Apple with Horn Stem Tobacco Pipe

Jens "Tao" Nielsen was a sailor first, then spent time in the military before turning to pipe making and an apprenticeship with Erik Nørding. Now, with over 50 years of experience in the industry, Tao has his own unique style, leaning heavily on his Danish design roots, but with an emphasis on functionality and stout proportions. His pieces are in high demand worldwide due to his precise shaping and attention to detail, and this Apple is an excellent example of his work.

Like many Tao pipes, this Apple measures less than five inches long, making it perfect for-the-go smoking. Shape-wise, this piece sees a plump, spherical bowl that stands at the fore of a stout shank and a tapered horn stem. The cheeked transition emphasizes the bowl's rounded curves and subtly delineates the fore and aft sides of the pipe. The shank mirrors the bowl's brawny build and provides balance to the form, both visually and in hand. An auburn smooth finish dresses the stummel and highlights handsome birdseye and flame grain across the bowl, while the horn stem lends a touch of shimmering vibrancy to the pipe's profile.