Werner Mummert: Sandblasted Deco Hawkbill Tobacco Pipe

It's always a delight to see new pieces from Werner Mummert, whether the designs are more eclectic or a tad bit more conservatively crafted. This Hawkbill from the innovative German carver is among several such shapes in his portfolio, the design hearkening back to 19th century France, where, ironically, the Art Deco movement originated during the 1920s and '30s.

This Hawkbill presents a supple, Brandy bowl, with its plump, low mass and easy taper to the rim endowed with the gentle lines and easy roundness inherent to Danish and often German design. It's poised gracefully at the end of the form's iconic bend, which is a little less defined here than in other renditions we've seen from the talented artisan. There's certainly nothing wrong with refinement, however, which describes strictly the shaping seen here. Rather lengthy and topped by an abbreviated, hand-cut saddle stem, it's wearing Werner's signature bright Deco technicolor stain, the sandblasted finish lending textural appeal as well. An eye-catching, high-quality smoker, this vibrant piece is sure to engender lots of lively conversations.