Werner Mummert: Sandblasted Hawkbill Tobacco Pipe

The work of German artisan Werner Mummert is anything but classical, nor is it neoclassical. In fact, there's hardly a term that I can readily think of to define Mummert's body of work, which is to say, essentially, it defies definition: It's simply "Mummert." He draws ample influence from the modern art world, with hints of Futurism and Cubism, though he truly embodies a style all his own. A great example of this kind of singular style is this Hawkbill, a rendition that maintains the sort of aquiline arc to its shank that's made the profile so popular in the realm of Italian pipe making, though has altered almost everything else about it, including the shape of the shank itself. When I say this I speak to the way that Mummert has flattened it, pushing it into a more ovoid shape and framing it with a pair of sharp ridgelines that run from the end to the heel before wrapping around and traveling the same route to the other side.

As the shank makes its way to the transition, we find that it becomes gently pinched, lifting slightly as it meets the bowl with supple cheeking. If you were to look at the vast majority of Hawkbill renditions from Italy, you would find that there is often a much more severe degree of arc to the shank's travel. Mummert has reduced this a bit, still keeping it in line with conventions, and opted for an overall look that speaks to a more easygoing fluidity which emphasizes the shank itself, though keeps the bowl in prominence. Said bowl is a plump affair that reminds me immediately of the Brandy, with a low-set waistline and a gentle taper to the rim that allows the hand to easily appreciate its curves. Something else the hand, and the eyes, will appreciate is the incredible sandblast that dresses this piece, with its dark, inky stain showcasing stunning ring grain rising from the heel to the rim and chevrons of growth rings flowing along the underside of the shank. The dark color palette is contrasted readily by the purple saddle stem, its multicolored band furthering the contrast and making this pip e one that is truly unmissable and unmistakable as anyone's but Mummert's.