Sven Lar 1ES XL Smooth Freehand Sitter Estate Briar Pipe, American Estates

Sven Lar was the name used by a workshop headed by American freehand carver Michael Kabik. Kabik got his start as one of the earliest freehand carvers in the United States, working for CHP-X Pipes, owned by Chuck Holiday, in the early-1970s. After CHP-X was forced to close, Kabik was approached with the offer of heading a new workshop in Virginia, which ultimately took on the name Sven Lar. As with many American freehand carvers, Kabik was especially influenced by the greats of Danish post-war pipe-making, including Anne Julie, who spent time with Kabik, passing on the techniques of the trade.

Freehand pipes have a tendency toward “sculptural” forms—in an avant-garde sort of way—but few freehand carvers have taken this tendency quite as far as Michael Kabik and his Sven Lar make. With its “twisting” form, there’s certainly something of an abstract expressionist tinge to this sitter. On the other hand, even the most masterful composition would be little without good grain, which thankfully this one also has in spades.

The condition is very good. Some rim darkening and a couple of slight scratches on the bowl.

Details:

Length: 6.8″ / 172.7mm

Bowl Width: 0.96 / 24.38mm

Bowl Depth: 1.87″ / 47.49mm

Weight: 4.0oz / 116g