Sven Lar Skulptur by Michael Kabik XL Smooth Bulldog Estate Briar Pipe, Unsmoked

Description

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.

While most of the pipes that Michael Kabik carved for the Sven Lar make were closer to “freehands” as we understand the term, he also crafted more “traditional” shapes from time to time. This would be an example of the latter. Though it bears some affinities with the pipes of certain Danish artisans, including to the aforementioned Anne Julie, Peter Hedegaard, and S. Bang, it is nonetheless an almost surprisingly classic bulldog compared to Kabik’s other designs—though, it must be said, one that is decidedly broad and large.

This pipe is completely unsmoked, with an original bowl coating. A few minor scratches on the bowl.

Details:

Length: 6.5″ / 165.1mm

Bowl Width: 0.92 / 23.36mm

Bowl Depth: 1.63″ / 41.40mm

Weight: 2.9oz / 84g