WO Larsen Rustica Part Rusticated Bulldog Estate Briar Pipe, Danish Estates

Description

WO Larsen was a tobacconist in Copenhagen Denmark. In the 1960s, when Danish-style pipes were becoming highly sought after, thanks to revolutionary pipe-makers such as Sixten Ivarsson, a workshop was set up on the Larsen premises to produce enough high-grade Danish pipes to meet demand. This workshop was staffed by the emerging masters of Danish pipe-making, such as Sven and Teddy Knudsen, Hans ‘Former’ Nielsen, Jess Chonowitsch, Poul Ilsted, and Benni Jorgensen.

Like the Italians and the Irish, the Danes had their own, distinct approach to rustication. Though I’m not sure of its precise origins, the type of fine, micro-rustication seen here was brought to prominence by Peter Brakner, through his own approach to high-grade handmade pipes. WO Larsen’s Rustica line blended smooth and micro-rusticated finishes to great effect, often using the latter for extra grip at the base of the bowl, or for “fumed” rim effects, like this one has. As for the shape of this one, those who are familiar with the deeper history of Danish pipes may notice its similarity to the bent bulldog shapes Poul Ilsted made, especially during his Svendborg venture with Jens Tao Nielsen. Contrary to popular belief, WO Larsen did have shape charts, albeit very loose ones. If Ilsted didn’t make this one, I’d be surprised if he didn’t have a hand in designing it. He did work for WO Larsen for a few years, after all.

The condition is good. Rim darkening and a slight over-buffing of the pipe’s rusticated upper bowl section.

 

Details:

Length: 5″ / 127.0mm

Bowl Width: 0.85 / 21.59mm

Bowl Depth: 1.40″ / 35.56mm

Weight: 1.6oz / 46g