Stanwell Shape Numbers and Designers: Difference between revisions

At some point prior to 1970, Stanwell first started to sell what are commonly called called 'freehand' pipes, though this term was not present on their stamping. These pipes were only stamped with the Stanwell name and registration number, as well as "HAND MADE IN DENMARK" or "MADE IN DENMARK," though some were also stamped "de Luxe." The designs of these pipes did not conform to Stanwell's shape codes and established formal conventions (including for their stems); rather, their shaping was left to the whim of in-house carver, [[Hansen, Poul|Poul Hansen]]. These 'freehand' pipes were similar in design philosophy to those of carvers such as [[Holm, Preben|Preben Holm]], in that they were shaped in ways that emphasised natural grain patterns rather than established pipe forms. These pipes were offered in sandblasted or in smooth finishes and in a number of stains. As it would be impossible to account for every 'free hand' shape Stanwell made under Poul Hansen's direction, a small selection of these pipes are instead pictured below.