Karl Erik D Smooth Pot Estate Briar Pipe, Danish Estates

Description

Karl Erik was a Danish pipe-maker, and one of the originators of the Danish style of pipe-making that swept the world in the 20th century. He was a prolific carver and many who apprenticed in his workshop went on to become iconic pipe-makers in their own right, such as Peder Jeppesen and Bent Nielsen (Benner). Erik was also what might be called a pipe-maker’s pipe-maker, one admired not only by Danish pipe enthusiasts, but by other legends in his contemporary scene – so much so that, when Erik sadly passed in 2004, Tom Eltang bought Erik’s lathe to use in his own workshop.

I’ll admit, when this pipe first landed on my desk, I didn’t quite get it. I love Karl Erik’s pipes, but I wasn’t sure about this one. I think it largely came down to the design of the stem: as can be seen, it initially looks like it doesn’t sit flush with the shank. But after removing it, it’s clear that this is deliberate. In other words, it has a design very similar to the famous space-fitting “gap” found on certain Peterson pipes, such as on their Deluxe System models. Peterson’s own “gap” originally had a functional role, but over time simply became part of the ornamentation of their designs. And that’s what’s going on here. The rest of the Karl Erik is a lovely Danish slightly bent pot, with a slight chubbiness that helps accentuate the briar’s flame grain. There’s also a nice amber-like ferrule that adds a dash of color to the overall design.

The condition is very good. Some very small scratches on the bowl and some inner rim darkening.

 

Details:

Length: 5.2″ / 132.0mm

Bowl Width: 0.86 / 21.84mm

Bowl Depth: 1.22″ / 30.98mm

Weight: 1.9oz / 54g