Preben Holm Deluxe Matt Freehand Estate Briar Pipe, Danish Estates

Description

Though he would tragically pass away at the age of 42, Preben Holm was one of the pioneering figures in the ‘Danish design’ movement in 20th century pipe-making – a movement that still dominates the high-grade pipe scene. By hand-shaping his pipes on a belt sander, Holm was able to make the most of the patterns of grain hidden within briar, creating spectacular works of pipe art that looked just as good as they smoked. Owing to Holm’s untimely passing, his pipes are even more highly sought after than they were during his lifetime.

This pipe is a remarkably traditionalist offering from Preben Holm, to the point where, if not for the distinctly Danish flared stem, it could almost pass for a classical Oom Paul. It does have its more modern attributes, however, especially in the way the bowl balloons outward from the shank and is generally rounder and more organic than is typical in English or French renditions. Excellent straight grain too, which tends to demand a more freehand approach.

The condition is very good. Some rim darkening and what looks to either be a handling mark or a natural briar imperfection (superficial) on the left side of the bowl.

 

Details:

Length: 5.5″ / 139.7mm

Bowl Width: 0.78 / 19.81mm

Bowl Depth: 1.58″ / 40.13mm

Weight: 1.5oz / 44g