Stanwell Shape Numbers and Designers

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Introduction

" In my experience Bas Stevens is one of the foremost authorities on Stanwell pipes. Whenever I find a shape I need information on or a pipe that I need help identifying the shape or the carver I email Bas and he has the information readily at hand. I picked up this shape listing from him some time ago and it identifies the shape by number and by designer. I found it extremely helpful so I wrote Bas and asked if I could post it here. Bas granted gracious permission and below is what Bas has provided. "

- Steve Laug of rebornpipes, September 2013.


This list of post-1948 Stanwell shape numbers is based on the dedicated work of notable Stanwell collector, Basil Stevens, who passed away a few years ago. Bas's list first appeared on rebornpipes.com, and appears here on Pipedia in a modified form courtesy of Bas and Steve at rebornpipes. As new Stanwell pipes have been released, and previously-unknown shapes have been unearthed, additions have been made to Bas's original list. Furthermore, Bas's descriptions of each shape have been modified for purposes of consistency and ease of identification for Stanwell owners and collectors. Despite these changes, Bas remains the primary author of the information gathered here. The corresponding author at this moment in time is Danish pipe enthusiast James McNally. Corrections are welcomed, and those without a Pipedia editor account can submit their corrections to aftersixten@gmail.com.

This article is dedicated to the memory of Basil D. Stevens.

List by Shape Number

A note on the text

A rare post-1948 (Reg. era) Stanwell shape 301, produced prior to the modern ascending shape numbering conventions of the Stanwell pipes listed here. Note the horn stem - a feature not used for Stanwell pipes since this period. Image courtesy Denver Boyd.

The following is a list of post-1948 Stanwell shape numbers and their corresponding pipe shapes. At the moment, it does not include shape numbers for Kyringe pipes, or for Stanwell pipes produced prior to what is commonly known as Stanwell's 'Registry era' (or 'Reg. era'), which began when the 'Stanwell' name was formally registered as a brand in 1948. It also does not include Stanwell sub-brands, such as Scandia or Danish Sovereign (a full list of which can be found on the main Pipedia entry for Stanwell), as these pipes employ a different set of shape numbers derived from the Stanwell shape list, and feature shapes which sometimes deviate from the Stanwell pipes they derive their numbers and shapes from.

Regarding Stanwell shape numbers and their corresponding pipe shapes, there are several problems that are encountered when creating a list of such. The first is that Stanwell has, at different times in its long history as a pipe manufacturer, used the same shape number for different pipe shapes. It is not uncommon to find the same shape number used for two completely different shapes by two different designers (such as Sixten Ivarsson's and Anne Julie's version of the '35'), or by the same designer (such as the two '01' shapes, both by Sixten Ivarsson). There are also recorded instances where a shape number has been used for three, or even four, completely different shapes. These are usually not due to stamping errors during production, but reflect Stanwell's relatively frequent overhauls of its catalog over the many decades of its existence. For practical purposes, in the following list, instances of a shape number being used for multiple, completely different shapes are designated alphabetically (e.g., 01a, 01b, etc.), as Stanwell rarely acknowledged design changes on the pipes themselves. Minor differences between iterations of the same shape design, such as the use of different stem configurations, are noted, but are not accorded separate alphabetical designations. Where possible, the designers of a given shape number have been listed. Additionally, dates for when a shape was first produced or exhibited in a catalog have, where possible, been included. Due to the difficulties in finding documented evidence on Stanwell pipe production, the information on designers and dates recorded here should not be considered exhaustive.

As for the descriptions of each shape, care is being taken to strike a balance between simplicity, accuracy, and generality. Stanwell pipe shapes from the 1950s onwards are often drastically distinct from those of traditional European shape charts, which leads to difficulties in finding the appropriate language to describe a given Stanwell pipe. The list is currently undergoing revision in order to standardize the syntax and terminology employed for easier use by readers. To further assist in the identification of Stanwell shapes, visual aids are in the process of being included in the list where possible, such as for particularly unorthodox shapes within the list. Scans of several Stanwell catalogs are also available to view at the bottom of this page.

This will likely be a long project, so feel free to check back every once in a while if the relevant information you require has not yet been added. - JM, April 2023.

Standard shape codes

An approximate guide to Stanwell stem types, compiled by J. McNally using images courtesy of SmokingPipes.com. Note that there are still variations within these stem types, such as longer tapered fantails on some shapes, and shorter on others, as well as 'hybrid' stem types, especially in Stanwell's Pipes of the Year, where designs are often more elaborate than standard catalog shapes.

Numbered shape codes

  • 01. There have been two versions of this shape number:
a) Straight Dublin with a slightly conical bowl, protruding heel, sloped rim, and long stepped stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (late 1950s - see catalog below). This pipe was the first of the 'Nefertiti' design variations licensed to Stanwell by Sixten Ivarsson (see picture, right).
b) Bent pick-ax with a push flared stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
A variation of the 'Nefertiti' design made by Sixten Ivarsson in 1960. Note the tall bowl with a protruding 'heel' at its base, along with a long, stepped stem, which would become signature motifs of this design across its many iterations and variations. Sixten Ivarsson licensed several variations of the 'Nefertiti' to Stanwell, such as the original shape 01 (whose shaping is closest to the one pictured) and shape 43(a).Image courtesy Smokingpipes.com
  • 02. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Straight pot with an oval chamber and a flush flared stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
b) Bent egg with a sloped rim and tapered stem.
  • 03. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Slightly bent tall horn-bulldog hybrid with a diamond shank and short tapered stem (early 1950s - see catalog).
b) Straight billiard of medium size with a tapered, or long fantail (early), stem.
  • 03M: This shape is the same as 03(b) but with a vulcanite mount and push flared stem; 'M' is short for 'military,' as these shapes all feature a military/army mount of some variety.
  • 04. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Long Lumberman with a saddle, or saddle fantail, stem.
b) Quarter-bent apple with a sloping vulcanite ferrule and push flared stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 05. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Zulu-style with an oval shank and a tapered stem (early 1950s - see catalog).
b) Slightly bent Rhodesian with an oval shank and a tapered stem.
  • 06. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Bent Dublin with a saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (early 1950s - see catalog).
b) Large bent brandy sitter with a saddle stem.
  • 07. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Slightly bent Zulu-Canadian hybrid with an oval shank and a short tapered stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
b) Bent apple with a triangular shank and saddle stem.
  • 08. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Slightly bent forward-canted stack with a tapered stem (early 1950s - see catalog).
b) Bent apple with a flared vulcanite mount and flared push stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 09. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Straight Dublin-Canadian hybrid with a short tapered stem (early 1950s - see catalog).
Stanwell's second shape 09 featured an unusual triangular motif from rim to heel. Image courtesy Smokingpipes.com
b) Slightly bent brandy with a rounded triangular rim, protruding rounded heel, and flush flared stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (pictured, right).
  • 10. Three versions of this shape number:
a) Slightly bent Dublin-Zulu hybrid with a strong forward cant and a tapered stem (early 1950s - see catalog).
Stanwell's second shape 10 was yet another highly unique Sixten Ivarsson creation, featuring a tall, strawberry-like bowl and a flattened S-curve leading from shank to button. Image courtesy Smokingpipes.com
b) Slightly bent strawberry with a special stepped stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (late 1950s - see catalog; pictured, right).
c) Bent, strawberry with a flared vulcanite mount and flared push stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 11. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Slightly bent billiard with an oval shank and a tapered stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
b) Slightly bent large, wide pot, with a concave rim and various possible stem configurations (typically saddle, but can also be military mount tapered, faux-spigot saddle, etc.), by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • Anne Julie's 11R bulldog for Stanwell showcases her characteristic fondness for adding long, sweeping curves to this traditional shape. Image courtesy Lunting Bear Pipe Restoration.
    11R. Tall bent bulldog with a diamond shank and long tapered stem, by Anne Julie (pictured, right).
  • 12. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Straight billiard with a forward cant and tapered stem (early 1950s - see catalog).
b) Large billiard with a tapered stem.
  • 13. Three versions of this shape number:
a) Short cutty with a saddle stem (early 1950s - see catalog).
Stanwell's second shape 13 featured another signature motif in Sixten Ivarsson's designs, a short, slightly swollen bowl with a rounded rim, that has come to be known as the 'pear.' Pear bowls can be found in a number of Stanwell designs by Sixten Ivarsson, perhaps most famously in the shape 71. Image courtesy Smokingpipes.com
b) Slightly bent pear with an oval shank and a saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (pictured, right).
c) Large billiard with a saddle stem.
  • 14. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Rhodesian-Zulu hybrid with a round shank and tapered stem (early 1950s - catalog).
b) Straight large billiard with a saddle stem.
  • 15. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Quarter-bent footless cutty with a round shank and tapered churchwarden stem.
b) Bent apple with a triangular shank and saddle, or half-saddle, stem.
  • 16. Straight stack-Canadian hybrid with a slightly bent tapered stem (early 1950s).
  • Stanwell's shape 16M looks somewhat reminiscent of one of Sixten Ivarsson's most enduring shapes for the brand, namely shape 11(b). Like the 11, it featured a wide, slightly bent pot, yet where the 11 included a slightly concave rim, the 16M instead had concave bowl walls, creating the appearance of being 'squashed.' Image courtesy William at EstateBriarPipes.dk.
    16M. Slightly bent wide pot with concave sides to the bowl, a flared vulcanite mount and flared push stem (pictured, right).
  • 17. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Slightly bent Canadian with a tapered fantail stem (early 1950s - see catalog).
b) Straight pot with a rounded rim and tapered stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 18. Four versions of this shape number:
a) Straight billiard with a tapered stem (early 1950s - see catalog).
b) Quarter-bent strawberry with a saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
c) Straight stack with a short tapered stem.
d) Tall slightly bent Zulu-style with a short, tapered fantail stem.
  • 19. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Long straight footless cutty (early 1950s - see catalog).
b) Quarter bent Dublin with a concave rim and saddle, or special stepped, stem.
c) Bent Dublin with triangular side-profile, a round, or rounded-square, rim and saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 20. Three versions of this shape number:
a) Shorter version of 19a (early 1950s - see catalog).
b) Quarter-bent 'boat' with a special stepped stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (pictured, right).
Stanwell's shape 20(b) is one of Sixten Ivarsson's strangest - if not most un-ergonomic - creations. With a bowl shaped like a boat's hull and a rarely featured special stepped stem, it is as difficult to smoke and to maintain as it looks. On the other hand, it does look marvellous. Image courtesy James McNally.
c) Large bent Dublin with an ovular rim and a saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 21. Four versions of this shape:
a) Bent Dublin with a round shank and tapered churchwarden stem (early 1950s - see catalog).
b) Bent brandy with a flattened front side and saddle mouthpiece.
Stanwell's third shape 21, designed by Sixten Ivarsson, is a divisive one. A variation on Ivarsson's 'Potato Sack' design, the shape features a bowl whose ovular rim is angled 90 degrees away from the shank, and which appears to hang from the stem like a bag on a stick. Image courtesy Smokingpipes.com
c) Slightly bent 'Potato Sack' with a long stepped stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (pictured, right).
c) Bent apple with a saddle stem (1980s - see catalog)
  • 22. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Straight billiard with an oval shank and a tapered stem (early 1950s - see catalog).
b) Bent apple-horn hybrid with a half-saddle stem.
  • 23. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Straight billiard (early 1950s - see catalog).
b) Bent strawberry with a rounded rim and saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 24. Three versions of this shape number:
a) Straight, forward-canted Dublin with a long stepped stem (early 1950s - see catalog); similar to Peterson's 'Belgique' shape.
b) Slightly bent Dublin with a sharp forward cant, an oval shank and a tapered stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
A shape 24(c) from Stanwell's sub-brand, Royal Danish. While some of Stanwell's sub-brands use different shape codes and sometimes will deviate from the standard Stanwell model, this one appears to be a perfect copy, and was likely relegated to Royal Danish due to the quality of the briar. Image courtesy Colja Shoppe.
c) Quarter-bent volcano, with a saddle or push flared stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 25. Three versions of this shape number:
a) Footed cutty with a long tapered stem (early 1950s - see catalog)
b) Same as 24(a) but larger, by Sixten Ivarsson.
c) Bent squat-apple with a rounded rim and a saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 26. Two versions of this shape number:
Anne Julie's shape 26(b) for Stanwell employs motifs that have become staples of 'Danish' approaches to the traditional Dublin; a wide rim, an accentuated forward cant, and a rounding of the transition from bowl to shank. Image courtesy SmokingPipes.com.
a) Small, straight billiard with a long stepped stem (late 1950s - see catalog).
b) Quarter-bent wide Dublin with an oval shank and a tapered stem, by Anne Julie.
  • 26M. Same as 26(a) but with a vulcanite mount and push flared stem.
  • 27. Quarter-bent billiard with a silver military-mount, or horn ferrule, and push flared stem.
  • 28. Bent brandy with a saddle stem.
  • 29. Straight billiard of medium size with a tapered stem.
  • A Sixten Ivarsson 'Peewit' from 1973. Ivarsson frequently returned to this design throughout his career as a pipemaker, licensing several variations to Stanwell, as well as continuing to make them under his own name. The Peewit is distinguished by its strawberry-like or acorn-like conical bowl and raised shank, typically with a bent or quarter-bent angle to the overall pipe. The Peewit would also come be reinterpreted by many artisan pipemakers, including in designs licensed to Stanwell by Tom Eltang, and Sixten's granddaughter, Nanna Ivarsson. Image courtesy The Danish Pipe Shop.
    30. Bent strawberry with various possible stem configurations (thin stepped, thicker stepped, metal faux-spigot, horn ferrule with push flared stem, etc.), by Sixten Ivarsson. An example of Ivarsson's 'Peewit' design (see picture, right).
  • 31. Three versions of this shape number:
Stanwell's shape 31 as featured in the 1960s catalog (see below). Currently no images exist of this pipe outside of the catalog illustration, but its design is worth a picture (if you have one, please let me know - JM). The stem seems to be unique in that it combines elements of the trapezoidal saddle stem seen on many Sixten Ivarsson designs (such as shape 71) with the diamond motif of traditional bulldog pipes.
a) Straight bulldog with a unique diamond-trapezoidal saddle stem (late 1950s - see catalog; pictured, see right).
b) Straight bulldog with a long shank and a short saddle stem.
c) Larger shape 30 but with a saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 32. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Straight bulldog with a saddle stem; Stanwell’s first pipe shape (originally designed in 1942).
For Stanwell's second shape 32, Sixten Ivarsson combined his Peewit motif with elements of a more traditional bent, large-bowled Dublin, creating a shape which is at once simple and difficult to put into words. Thankfully, a picture has been provided courtesy of Yuri at Blaik Pipes.
b) Bent Dublin-strawberry hybrid with a rounded rim and saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson. Redesigned by Tom Eltang in the early 1990s.
  • 33. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Bent bulldog with a tapered stem.
b) Quarter-bent tall bulldog with a diamond shank and push flared stem.
  • 34. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Slightly bent Zulu-bulldog hybrid with a tall bowl, diamond shank, and tapered stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (late 1950s - see catalog).
b) Slightly bent bulldog with a forward cant, diamond shank, and push flared stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 35. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Bent strawberry 'Peewit' with a long stepped stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (late 1950s - see catalog).
b) Bent egg with an oval shank and a tapered stem, by Anne Julie.
  • 36. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Slightly bent pear with an oval stem and a short trapezoidal saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
b) Bent squat apple with an oval stem and a tapered stem, by Anne Julie (1975).
  • 37. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Rhodesian-Zulu hybrid with a churchwarden stem (late 1950s).
b) Full-bent volcano sitter with an oval shank and a tapered stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 38. Two versions of this shape number
a) Lovat with a short saddle mouthpiece.
b) Bent, tall conical-bowled Dublin with a protruding heel and a long stepped stem, by Sixten Ivarsson. A variation on the Nefertiti design (late 1950s - see catalog).
c) Small bent, short saddle mouthpiece.*
  • 39. Larger 35a, by Sixten Ivarsson (late 1950s).
  • 40. Small straight billiard with an oval stem and a saddle mouthpiece.
  • 41. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Medium sized straight billiard with a military mount and tapered stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (late 1950s; last produced in 1980).
b) Bent apple with a concave rim and saddle stem.
  • 42. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Slightly bent billiard with a long stepped stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
b) Oom-Paul style, full-bent with a large billiard bowl, an oblong shank and a saddle stem.
  • 43. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Quarter-bent tall Dublin with a protruding heel and stepped stem, by Sixten Ivarsson. A Nefertiti variation (late 1950s - see catalog).
b) Full-bent, large, squat tomato with a saddle stem.
  • 44. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Small billiard, full mouthpiece.*
b) Slightly bent billiard with a rounded-diamond shank and a short saddle stem (1975).
  • 45. Straight, medium sized pot with a tapered stem (late 1950s - see catalog).
  • 46. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Slightly bent pot with a saddle stem (late 1950s - see catalog).
b) Short straight pot with a saddle stem.
  • 47. Small, slightly bent scoop with an oval shank and a tapered stem (late 50s - see catalog).
  • 48. Quarter-bent acorn with a stepped stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (1960s - see catalog).
  • 49. Two versions of this shaper number
a) Slightly bent Dublin with an oval shank and tapered stem (late 1950s - see catalog).
b) Freehand, bent saddle mouthpiece.*
  • 50. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Bent Dublin with an ovular rim and a saddle stem (late 1950s - see catalog).
b) Straight billiard with an oval stem and a trapezoidal saddle, or tapered, stem (1960s - see catalog).
  • 51. Small straight billiard with a tapered stem.
  • 52. Medium straight billiard with a tapered stem.
  • 53. Straight billiard of medium size with a saddle mouthpiece.
  • 53M. Same as 53 but with military mount and tapered stem.
  • 54. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Same as 35a but with a flat rim, by Sixten Ivarsson.
b) Short lovat with a saddle stem.
  • 55. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Bent Dublin with an oval rim, oval stem, and a saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson. Designed and introduced in the late 1950’s to early 1960s.
b) Quarter-bent brandy with a saddle stem (1980s - see catalog).
  • 56. Canadian with a tapered stem.
  • 57. Small straight billiard with a tapered stem (late 1950s - see catalog).
  • 58. Straight, tall billiard with a tapered stem.
  • 59. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Slightly bent strawberry with a stepped stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (late 1950s - see catalog).
b) Canadian with a tapered stem.
  • 60. Straight chimney with a long saddle stem (late 1950s).
  • 61. Small billiard, long 75mm full mouthpiece.
  • 62. Two versions of this shaper number
a) Liverpool, medium size.
b) Freehand, Plateau top, saddle mouthpiece, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 63. Freehand, Plateau top, saddle mouthpiece, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 63M. Same as 63, but with a vulcaanite mount and push flared stem.
  • 64. Two versions of this shape number
a) Freehand, Plateau top, saddle mouthpiece, by Sixten Ivarsson.
b) Bent billiard, medium size, full mouthpiece.
  • 64M. Same as 64(a), but with a vulcanite ferrule and a push flared stem.
  • 65. Dublin, full mouthpiece.
  • 66. “Chimney”, saddle mouthpiece.
  • 67. Small oval bowl, slightly bent, full mouthpiece.
  • 68. Poker, saddle mouthpiece.
  • 69. Two versions of this shaper number
a) Dublin.
b) Same as shape 67 but larger.
  • 70. Two versions of this shaper number
a) Freehand, slightly bent, sitter, oval stem and mouthpiece, by Sixten Ivarsson – 1967.
b) Canted Billiard with pencil shank.
  • 71. Freehand, rounded rim, oval stem, saddle mouthpiece, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 71L. A slightly larger version of Sixten Ivarsson's shape 71.
  • 72. Billiard, medium size, full mouthpiece.
  • 73. No known shape.
  • 74. Canadian, medium size.
  • 75. Freehand, slightly bent, oval stem & mouthpiece, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 76. Liverpool, medium size.
  • 77. Two versions of this shaper number
a) Freehand; slightly bent skater-style with a saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (late 1950s).
b) Freehand, oval bowl, saddle mouthpiece, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 78. Freehand, oval bowl and stem, saddle mouthpiece, by Sixten Ivarsson – 1950s.
  • 79. Quarter-bent Dublin with a saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (late 1950s).
  • 80. Two versions of this shaper number
a) Small billiard, saddle mouthpiece.
b) Large bent billiard.
  • 81. Three versions of this shape number:
a) “Chimney”, saddle mouthpiece.
b) Large billiard, saddle mouthpiece.
c) Bent apple with a slightly horizontally-squashed bowl (a little like a blowfish), with a saddle stem.
  • 82R. Large billiard, taper bit
  • 83. Bent billiard of medium size with tapered stem (late 1950s).
  • 83M. Same as 83 but with a military mount and tapered stem.
  • 83R. Short and wide pot with a tapered stem.
  • 84. Two versions of this shaper number
a) Dublin, slightly bent with oval stem.
b) Large bent, saddle mouthpiece by Tom Eltang.
  • 84R. Large Lumberman, Oval Shank and taper bit
  • 85. Two versions of this shape number:
a) Freehand; tall bent egg with a stepped stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (late 1950s).
b) Bent Billiard saddle mouthpiece. (discontinued – 2006 and replaced with shape 246).
  • Stanwell's 85R is a mysterious pipe. It is absent from all known catalogs and the shape itself is not easily put into words. Image courtesy Fae of Tobacco Treasures.
    85R. A unique, skater-style, flat-bottomed sitter with a tapered stem (see picture, right).
  • 86. Two versions of this shaper number
a) Freehand, slightly bent, full mouthpiece by Sixten Ivarsson.
b) Large billiard, full mouthpiece.
  • 86M.Same as 86(a) but with a vulcanite mount and push flared stem.
  • 87. Four versions of this shape number
a) Large billiard, full mouthpiece.
b) Large “Chimney”, full mouthpiece.
c) Freehand, conical bowl, long saddle mouthpiece by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 87R. Same as 87(b).
d) Large ball, full mouthpiece.
  • 88. Three versions of this shape number
a) Large “Chimney”, full mouthpiece.
b) Billiard, medium size, very short, full mouthpiece.
c) Billiard, full mouthpiece.
  • 89. Two versions of this shaper number
a) Freehand, oval stem, short oval saddle mouthpiece, by Sixten Ivarsson.
b) Large pot, thin, long saddle mouthpiece.
  • 90. Freehand, ball shaped, saddle mouthpiece by Sixten Ivarsson – 1951.
  • 91. Slightly bent wide, flattened volcano with an oval shank and a short, standard saddle, trapezoidal saddle, or tapered stem, by Sixten Ivarsson. Nicknamed the 'Ukelele' (pictured, right, in its reissued design).
  • Sixten Ivarsson's shape 91 'Ukelele' for Stanwell, seen here in its reissued form as the 91R. Another signature design in the Danish style from Ivarsson, and a pioneering exploration of the limits of horizontality. Image courtesy Mike at Pipes Pens and More.
    91R. A reissue of the shape 91 'Ukelele,' marketed as part of Stanwell's 'Giants' line (see 1960s catalog below; pictured, right).
  • 92. Same as shape 91 but smaller by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 93. Two versions of this shaper number
a) Small straight Dublin with a saddle mouthpiece (late 1950s).
b) Large Canadian.
  • 94. Two versions of this shaper number
a) Egg-shaped bowl with oval stem.
b) Freehand, straight, oval bowl and stem – 1950s.
  • 95. Two versions of this shaper number
a) “Chimney”, full mouthpiece.
b) Same as shape 86, but larger, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 96. Freehand, oval bowl, long saddle mouthpiece by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 97. Two versions of this shaper number
a) “Chimney”, saddle mouthpiece.
b) Liverpool.
  • 98. Two versions of this shaper number
a) Pot, saddle mouthpiece.
b) Lovat.
  • 99. Liverpool
  • 100. Small apple-shaped bowl, author bent.
  • 101. 'Elegance' series; Quarter-bent small strawberry with an acrylic mount and long tapered stem. A reinterpretation of Sixten Ivarsson's shape 48, by Sixten Ivarsson (1980s, see catalog).
  • 102. 'Elegance'; Bent apple with a concave rim, acrylic mount, and long tapered stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (1980s, see catalog).
  • 103. 'Elegance'; Small billiard with an acrylic mount and a long tapered stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (1980s, see catalog).
  • 104. 'Elegance'; Quarter-bent wide Dublin with an acrylic mount and a long tapered stem. A reinterpretation of Sixten Ivarsson's shape 86, by Sixten Ivarsson (1980s, see catalog).
  • 105. 'Elegance'; Bent apple with an acrylic mount and a long tapered stem. A reinterpretation of Sixten Ivarsson's shape 08(b), by Sixten Ivarsson (1980s, see catalog).
  • 106. 'Elegance'; Quarter-bent tall Dublin with an acrylic mount and a long tapered stem. A reinterpretation of Sixten Ivarsson's shape 79, by Sixten Ivarsson (1980s, see catalog).
  • 107. Straight small billiard with a tapered stem.
  • 108. Quarter-bent horn with a flush flared, or tapered fishtail, stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • 109. Quarter-bent apple with a tapered stem, sometimes with an army mount. Reminiscent of the English 'banker' shape, or Savinelli's shape 320.
  • 110. Bent Blowfish-style with a stepped/saddle hybrid stem, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 111. Quarter-bent Dublin with a tapered stem.
  • 112. Freehand, slightly bent, short saddle mouthpiece.
  • 113. Canadian with conical bowl.
  • 114. No known shape.
  • 115. Same as shape 111 with push mouthpiece..
  • 116. Pot with oval stem.
  • 117. Canadian, full mouthpiece, slightly bent.
  • 118. Freehand, slightly bent, saddle mouthpiece by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 119. Freehand, oval bowl, slightly bent, saddle mouthpiece.
  • 119L
  • 120. Large bent, conical bowl, full mouthpiece.
  • 121. Large ball-shaped bowl, full mouthpiece.
  • 122. Small Billiard, oval stem.
  • 123. Small bent Billiard.
  • 124. Freehand, long conical stem, short saddle mouthpiece, by Sixten Ivarsson & Lars Ivarsson in collaboration.
  • 125. Freehand, slightly bent, saddle mouthpiece by Tom Eltang.
  • 126. Same as shape 125 but with plateau top by Tom Eltang.
  • 127. Freehand strongly bent, saddle mouthpiece, similar to shape 39, by Sixten Ivarsson.
  • 128. Freehand, slightly bent, ball-shaped, long saddle mouthpiece by Tom Eltang.
  • 129. Large, ball-shaped, strongly bent, long saddle mouthpiece by Tom Eltang.
  • 130. Freehand, bent with push/long saddle mouthpiece.
  • 131. Straight squat apple/ball with a long round shank and saddle stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • 132. Large Billiard.
  • 133. Bent, ball-shaped with saddle mouthpiece.
  • 134. Freehand, slightly bent, with push mouthpiece by Tom Eltang.
  • 135. Freehand, slightly bent, saddle mouthpiece by Tom Eltang. .
  • 136. Bent, sloping bowl, saddle mouthpiece by Tom Eltang.
  • 137. Small Dublin, sloping bowl by Tom Eltang.
  • 138. Mid-Sized bent Freehand, Canted bowl round top rim by Tom Eltang, see example bellow.
  • 139. Billiard, slightly bent, conical bowl, by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 140. Small freehand, slightly bent, full mouthpiece by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 141. Billiard, medium size, conical bowl, full mouthpiece by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 142. Freehand, bent, saddle mouthpiece by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 143. No known shape.
  • 144. Freehand, large bent, plateau top, long saddle mouthpiece by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 145. Freehand, sloping bowl, long stem, short saddle mouthpiece by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 146. Freehand, oval stem saddle mouthpiece by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 147. Small pot, oval stem, short saddle mouthpiece by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 148. Canadian, short saddle mouthpiece by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 149. No known shape.
  • A Stanwell 'Junior' shape 152. The 'Junior' line was a German-market series of pipes that were smaller than average, and accommodated 9mm filters as standard. Image courtesy Jack Ritter.
    150. Special series, “Junior”, small shapes, filter only.
  • 151. Same
  • 152. Same
  • 153. Same
  • 154. Same
  • 155. Same
  • 156. Quarter-bent bulldog with a forward cant, by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 157. Freehand, slightly bent, full mouthpiece by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 158. Freehand, oval bowl, slightly bent, saddle mouthpiece by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 159. Large Billiard, conical bowl by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 160. Large bent, conical bowl by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 161. Large bent Bulldog, saddle mouthpiece by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 162. Calabash, with brass ring by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 163. Freehand, “Facet”, hexagonal, with brass ring by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 164. Freehand, “Trio”, with brass ring by Tom Eltang.
  • 165. Large bent, full mouthpiece.
  • 166. Large bent, “sitter”, saddle mouthpiece by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 167. Freehand, “Omega”, with brass ring by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 168. Freehand, “Golf”, with brass ring by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 169. Large Billiard, conical bowl, full mouthpiece by Jess Chonowitsch – 1986.
  • 170. Large “Rhodesian”, with brass ring, saddle mouthpiece by Bang.
  • 171. Freehand “Hexagon”, large bent, with brass ring by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 172. Freehand “Viking”, with brass ring by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 173. “Rhodesian”, with brass ring, full mouthpiece by Bang.
  • 174. Liverpool.
  • 175. Medium “Chimney”, full mouthpiece.
  • 176. Small ball-shaped bowl, oval stem, short full mouthpiece.
  • 177. Billiard, oval stem, short saddle mouthpiece by Tom Eltang.
  • 178. Billiard, conical bowl, oval stem with panels, full mouthpiece by Bang.
  • 179. Same as shape 178 but slightly bent by Bang.
  • 180. Freehand, conical bowl, oval stem, short saddle mouthpiece by Tom Eltang.
  • 181. Same as shape 180 but with Plateau top by Tom Eltang.
  • 182. Same as shape 179 but larger and with filter only by Bang.
  • 183. Large bent, oval stem with panels, saddle mouthpiece by Anne Julie
  • 184. Quarter-bent volcano with a saddle stem.
  • 185. Large bent, full mouthpiece.
  • 186. Freehand, large bent, egg-shaped bowl, saddle mouthpiece.
  • 187. Freehand, conical bowl, square stem, saddle mouthpiece.
  • 188. Large bent Bulldog, saddle mouthpiece by Bang.
  • 189. Freehand, “Rhodesian bowl”, oval stem with panels, saddle mouthpiece by Bang.
  • 190. Billiard with hexagon stem, brass ring, full mouthpiece by Tom Eltang – 1992.
  • 191. Small Rhodesian by Tom Eltang.
  • 192. Large Pot with short saddle mouthpiece.
  • 193. Apple, slightly bent, short saddle mouthpiece.
  • 194. Freehand, “Facet” with panels, brass ring, full mouthpiece.
  • 195. Large but short Billiard, full mouthpiece.
  • 196. Large but short Apple, full mouthpiece.
  • 197. No known shape.
  • 198. Freehand “Boa” with brass ring
  • 199. Featherweight, Billiard with hexagon stem and brass ring by Tom Eltang.
  • 200. Featherweight, Freehand, small shape 86.
  • 201. Featherweight, Canadian.
  • 202. Featherweight, Lovat.
  • 203. Freehand “Diamond.
  • 204. Freehand, slightly bent, square bowl and stem, saddle mouthpiece.
  • 205. Freehand “Lotus” with brass ring.
  • 206. Freehand “Lilje” with brass ring.
  • 207. Poker, by Poul Winslow.
  • Tom Eltang's 'Sixtus' series for Stanwell comprised of six shapes, each featuring an eponymous hexagonal shank. Image courtesy James Finn at Premium Polished Pipes.
    208. Sixtus; Straight billiard with hexagonal shank, brass ring, and tapered stem, by Tom Eltang (pictured, right).
  • 209. Sixtus, with hexagon stem and mouthpiece, brass ring, Apple by Tom Eltang.
  • 210. Sixtus, with hexagon stem and mouthpiece, brass ring, Pot by Tom Eltang.
  • 211. Sixtus, with hexagon stem and mouthpiece, brass ring, Freehand by Tom Eltang.
  • 212. Sixtus, with hexagon stem and mouthpiece, brass ring, Freehand by Tom Eltang.
  • 213. Sixtus, with hexagon stem and mouthpiece, brass ring, Freehand by Tom Eltang.
  • 214. Freehand, slightly bent, square stem and mouthpiece.
  • 215. Freehand, slightly bent, triangular stem, saddle mouthpiece by Poul Ilsted.
  • 216. Zulu with tapered stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • 217. Freehand oval Horn by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • 218. No known shape.
  • 219. No known shape.
  • 220. Liverpool.
  • 221. No known shape.
  • 222. No known shape.
  • 223. Bent Billiard, 6-face panel shank, full mounthpiece.
  • 224. No known shape.
  • 225. Freehand with oval shank.
  • 226. Tulip.
  • 227. Trim bent Dublin with saddle mouthpiece by Tom Eltang.
  • 228. Dublin by Tom Eltang.
  • 229. Bent brandy with half-saddle stem.
  • Though it is now a staple of artisanal pipemaking, the 'blowfish' shape, taken on here as a trade name for Tom Eltang's shape 230 for Stanwell, is difficult to identify in its essence. Stanwell's 'blowfish' looks like a bent egg when viewed from the side, but a closer inspection reveals an ovular, sometimes concave, rim with partially-flattened sides at the front and back of the bowl, creating more of a disc-shape than the egg it appears to be. Image courtesy The Danish Pipe Shop.
    230.Quarter-bent 'blowfish' with a silver ring and push flared stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • 231. Slightly bent apple with a tapered stem.
  • 232. Bent Billiard, sits on flat shank by Tom Eltang.
  • 233.Quarter-bent apple with a saddle stem.
  • 234. Billiard with oval shank by Poul Winslow.
  • 235. Island Pipe, FANØ; Straight, short chubby billiard with a saddle stem.
  • 236. Island Pipe, BORNHOLM.
  • 237. Island Pipe, SJAELLAND.
  • 238. Island Pipe, FYN.
  • 239. 'Featherweight' series; Straight brandy with a short bowl and a tapered stem. Later adopted as a shape in other lines.
  • 240. Featherweight; Quarter-bent Dublin with a tapered stem.
  • 241. Featherweight by Tom Eltang – 2005.
  • 242. Featherweight by Tom Eltang – 2005.
  • 243. Featherweight by Tom Eltang – 2005.
  • 244. Featherweight by Tom Eltang – 2005.
  • 245. Featherweight by Tom Eltang – 2005.
  • 246. Slimmed-down shape 86 – 2005.
  • 247. Spring, by Poul Winslow – 2005.
  • 248. Summer, by Poul Winslow – 2005.
  • 249. Fall, by Poul Winslow – 2005.
  • 250. Winter, by Poul Winslow – 2005.
  • 251. No known shape.
  • 252. No known shape
  • 253. No known shape
  • 254. No known shape
  • 255. No known shape
  • 256. Statement Series by Tom Eltang.
  • 257. Statement Series; Straight brandy with an oval shank and a trapezoidal saddle stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • 258. Statement Series; bent brandy with an oval shank and a saddle stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • 259. Statement Series; Slightly bent horn with a triangular shank and saddle stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • 260. Statement Series; Slightly bent apple with a triangular shank and a saddle stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • 291. 1/8 bent Apple.
  • 402.
  • 406. Slightly bent Rhodesian (introduced after 2008).
  • 407.
  • 409.
  • 1240. Slightly bent pot with a flush flared stem, by Sixten Ivarsson (early 1960s - see catalog)
  • 6458. Straight billiard; 'Featherweight' series (late 1950s - see catalog).
  • Expand with more featherweights.

Lettered Shape Codes

  • After Bjarne Nielsen's passing in 2008, Stanwell released a version of what Bjarne's widow had described as his "favorite pipe." The result is a particularly stout - thought also short and lightweight - brandy-billiard in the Danish style. Image courtesy Smokingpipes.com.
    B1. 'Bjarne Nielsen'; Straight, large billiard with a tapered stem, designed based on one of Bjarne Nielsen's pipes after his passing in 2008.
  • Favorite 24. Slightly bent Dublin with a sharp forward cant, oval shank, and tapered stem. A reissue of Sixten Ivarsson's shape 24 (b).
  • Favorite 71L. Straight pear with an oval shank and a trapezoidal saddle stem. A reissue of shape 71L, which was itself a larger version of Sixten Ivarsson's shape 71.
  • Favorite JM. Straight Dublin with an oval shank and a tapered stem. A reissue of what appears to be Tom Eltang's shape 228.
  • N1. Bent wide, squat tomato with a white ring and push flared stem, by Nanna Ivarsson.
  • N2. Quarter-bent squat calabash with a white ring and stepped/saddle hybrid stem, by Nanna Ivarsson.
  • N3. Quarter-bent strawberry with a silver ring and saddle stem, by Nanna Ivarsson. Reminiscent of Sixten Ivarsson's Peewit motif.
  • N4. Slightly bent apple with a white band and saddle stem, by Nanna Ivarsson.

Annual pipes

Pipe of the Year models

Each year since 1979, Stanwell has released a 'Pipe of the Year,' often designed by a notable figure in Danish pipe-making. It appears, however, that, at times, Stanwell has released two completely different pipes for a given year - one drilled to accommodate 9mm filters, and one with a standard bore.

Stanwell's first Pipe of the Year was a relatively conservative design; a simple, but elegant, dress billiard. Its designer is unknown, but it is around the same length and weight as the 03(b) shape.
  • Pipe of the Year 1979. Straight black dress billiard with a silver band and tapered stem (the first Pipe of the Year from Stanwell).
  • PotY 1980. Straight billiard with a tapered stem.
  • PotY 1981. Straight billiard with a tapered stem (the first POY to include dated silver plaque).
Stanwell's Pipes of the Year from 1980 to 2017, as collated by Blue Room Briars. Note that this chart does not include the alternative 'Jahrespfeife'/PotY designs Stanwell also produced for 9mm filter users.
  • PotY 1982. Straight billiard with an oval shank and tapered stem.
  • PotY 1983. Straight pear with an oval shank and a trapezoidal saddle stem. A reproduction of Sixten Ivarsson's shape 89(a) design.
  • PotY 1984. Straight billiard with a tapered stem.
  • PotY 1985. Quarter-bent squat Dublin with a saddle stem, by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • PotY 1986. Bent Dublin with a saddle stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 1987. Slightly bent Dublin with an oval shank and a saddle stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 1988. Straight apple with a saddle stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 1989. Straight brandy with a tapered stem, by Jess Chonowitsch. A reproduction of Jess Chonowitsch's shape 141 design.
  • PotY 1990. Slightly bent forward-canted billiard with an oval shank and a saddle stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 1991. Straight pot with a tapered stem, by Jess Chonowitsch.
  • PotY 1991b (alternate filter version). Horn-calabash hybrid with a tapered stem.
  • PotY 1992. Zulu with a tapered stem, by Tom Eltang. A reproduction of Tom Eltang's shape 216 design.
  • PotY 1993. Straight pear with an oval shank and a saddle stem, by Sixten Ivarsson. A reproduction of Sixten Ivarsson's shape 71 design.
  • PotY 1994. Straight billiard with a tapered stem.
  • PotY 1994b (filter). Straight billiard with a paneled oval shank and tapered stem. A reinterpretation of S. Bang's shape 178 design, with a larger shank to accommodate a 9mm filter.
  • PotY 1995. Straight brandy with a saddle stem.
  • PotY 1995b (filter.) Quarter-bent wide Dublin with a square shank, by Tom Eltang
  • PotY 1996. Straight apple with a tapered stem.
  • PotY 1997. Straight Dublin with a tapered stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 1998. Straight billiard with a short tapered stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 1999. Qurter-bent pot with a silver mount and flush flared stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 2000. Quarter-bent Dublin with a saddle stem, by Tom Eltang. A reproduction of Tom Eltang's shape 227 design.
  • PotY 2001. Straight Dublin with an oval shank and a tapered stem, by Tom Eltang. A reproduction of Tom Eltang's 228 design.
  • PotY 2002. Straight billiard with a tapered stem.
  • PotY 2002b (filter). Quarter-bent billiard with a silver faux-spigot and flare/saddle hybrid stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 2003. Straight billiard with an oval shank and tapered stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 2004. Quarter-bent apple with an oval shank and a saddle stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 2005. Slightly bent apple with a triangular shank and flare/saddle hybrid stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 2006. Bent tall strawberry with a saddle stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 2007. Straight squat Rhodesian with an oval shank and a tapered stem.
  • PotY 2007b (filter) Slightly bent brandy with a concave rim and a flare/saddle hybrid stem, by Poul Winsløw.
  • PotY 2008. Slightly bent tall Rhodesian with an oval shank and tapered stem.
  • PotY 2008b (filter). Bent billiard with two flush flared stems of differing lengths.
  • PotY 2009. Quarter-bent wide Dublin with an oval shank and a saddle stem.
  • PotY 2009b (filter). Bent brandy with a silver faux-spigot and a flare/saddle hybrid stem.
  • PotY 2010 Straight, long 'Bing' billiard with a tapered stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 2011. Quarter-bent scoop with a silver trim and saddle stem.
  • PotY 2012. Straight billiard with a flared push stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 2013. Slightly bent Rhodesian with a flared push stem, by Tom Eltang.
  • PotY 2014. Quarter-bent scoop-Dublin with a triangular shank and tapered fantail stem, by Manduela Riger-Kusk.
  • PotY 2015. Quarter-bent panel sitter with a green saddle stem.
  • PotY 2016. Bent Dublin with an acrylic trim and a flared push stem.
  • PotY 2017. Straight squat Dublin with a saddle stem, designed by Poul Winsløw.
  • PotY 2018. Straight Dublin with a flush flared stem.
  • PotY 2019. Straight brandy-lovat hybrid with a silver trim and saddle stem, by Johannes Gaarn Rasmussen (Suhr pipes).
  • PotY 2020. Slightly bent Dublin with plateau top and saddle stem.
  • PotY 2021. Quarter-bent apple with a saddle fantail stem, by Christian Noah Jeppesen
  • PotY 2022. Quarter-bent apple with a tapered stem. Based on Anne Julie's shape 36(b) design.
  • PotY 2023. Slightly bent cutty-egg hybrid with a tapered stem.

Christmas pipes

For a time, Stanwell also released seasonal 'Christmas' pipes, some of which are recorded here:

  • Christmas 2001. Quarter-bent Dublin with a bead-line on the rim, triangular shank, two silver bands and a saddle stem.
  • Christmas 2001. Bent Dublin with an acrylic ferrule, a silver band and half-saddle stem.
  • Christmas 2008. Bent volcano with a flush flared stem.
  • Christmas 2009. Bent squat tomato with an acrylic ferrule and a saddle stem.

Championship pipes

Stanwell supplies several slow-smoking championships across Scandinavia with pipes for these occasions. These pipes do not have shape codes, but can be identified by a st'amp for the year of production and for the event they were made for, such as 'DM' for the Danish Championship (Danish: Danmarks mesterskab), 'SSM' for the South Sealand Championship (Danish: Sydsjællands mesterskab), and so on. Stanwell often uses existing models for these championship pipes, but there have been occasions when a famous pipe maker has created a design especially for the occasion, such as the 1988 Danmarks mesterskab pipe, designed by Bent Nielsen.

'Jubilee' (Danish: Jubilaeum) pipes

On occasion, Stanwell released special 'Jubilee' pipes, most notably in 1982 (40th), 1992 (50th), and 2002 (60th), though 'Jubilee' pipes do exist from Stanwell's 'registration era.'

For the 40th and 50th Jubilee, a number of iconic shapes were chosen from Stanwell's back catalog (including shapes no longer produced). Pipes could be purchased individually, or as a full set. Different shapes featured in the Jubilee ranges. In the 1982 range, pipes were offered in natural, red, and golden contrast stains. In the 1992 Jubilee range, stems could be either standard black vulcanite, or cumberland ebonite.

For the 40th (1942-1982) Jubilee, these shapes were:

  • 32: Poul Stanwell's 32(a), the first shape designed for Stanwell, a classical straight bulldog, released in 1942.
  • 71. Sixten Ivarsson's 71, a straight pear-billiard with a saddle stem.
  • 118. Sixten Ivarsson's 118, a slightly bent volcano with a flush flared stem.
  • 119. A quarter-bent Dublin, with an oval rim, and a saddle stem.
  • 64. Sixten Ivarson's 64(a), a quarter-bent Dublin with a plateau rim and a flush flared stem.
  • 64M. Sixten Ivarsson's 64M, a version of the 64(a) shape, but with a vulcanite ferrule and a push flared stem.
  • 07. A quarter-bent apple with a diamond shank and a saddle stem.
  • 53. A straight billiard of medium size, with a saddle stem.
  • 108. Tom Eltang's quarter-bent horn/scoop hybrid with a flared flush stem.
  • 113. A Canadian with a wide, short bowl.
  • 156. Jess Chonowitsch's 156, a quarter-bent bulldog with a forward cant.
  • 12. A large billiard with a tapered stem (12b).
  • 57. A medium billiard with a tapered stem.

For the 50th (1942-1992) Jubilee, these shapes were:

  • 32: Poul Stanwell's 32(a), the first shape designed for Stanwell, a classical straight bulldog, released in 1942.
  • 06: Sixten Ivarsson's 06(a) bent Dublin, released in 1951.
  • 70: Sixten Ivarsson's 70(a) bent volcano, released in 1967.
  • 35. Anne Julie's 35(b) bent egg, released in 1975.
  • 169. Jess Chonowitsch's 169 straight brandy/tulip, released in 1986.
  • A six-day set of Stanwell's 1992 Jubilee pipes in their original case. Image courtesy Nicholas Gutierrez of NG Pipes.
    190. Tom Eltang's 190 hexagonal-shank billiard, as featured in the 'Sixtus' range, released in 1992.
A sandblasted Reg. era Stanwell from Poul Hansen's tenure. Image courtesy PipeClub & PipeClubEstates.

'Free hand' pipes

During the 1960s, Stanwell first started to sell what are commonly called called 'free hand' pipes, and were marketed as such. However, these pipes were only stamped with the Stanwell name and registration number, as well as "HAND MADE IN DENMARK" or "MADE IN DENMARK," and 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, Poul Hansen. These 'freehand' pipes were similar in design philosophy to those of carvers such as Preben Holm, in that they were shaped in ways that emphasised natural grain patterns and explored unconventional compositions, rather than established pipe forms. These pipes were offered in sandblasted or 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.

A Reg. era freehand from Poul Hansen's tenure overseeing their production. Image courtesy Valeria Ebay.

'Bamboo' pipes

Stanwell 'Bamboo' pipes all feature a shank extension made from bamboo stems. Stanwell Bamboo pipes fall into two categories:

  1. Numbered Bamboo pipes produced either between the late 1950s and 1970, or produced from the 1980s to the present. These pipes were, and are, produced according to shapes listed in contemporaneous Stanwell catalogs. As the Stanwell shape catalog has changed over time, so too have the pipe shapes in the Bamboo lines.
  2. Non-numbered Bamboo pipes produced during the1970s, made by a Mr Larsen (exactly which Larsen - as there are many within Danish and Stanwell pipe history - is unknown). These pipes were modelled on pre-existing shapes in the Stanwell catalog, but with variations in form allowed in order to produce pipes which best reflected the affordances of each individual bamboo piece, as well as the quality of individual briar blocks.

'Chess' pipes

A 'Rook' grade Stanwell from the Chess line. Image Courtesy DsTroveVintage.

In addition to the freehand shapes produced by Poul Hansen, Stanwell would later sell freehand-style pipes through the 'Chess' line, whose grading ran from Rook (lowest) to King (highest). The production of these pipes was originally overseen by Johann Larsen, before the task was handed over to Poul Winslow.

Churchwarden pipes

Originally (early 1950s), Stanwell churchwarden pipes had separate shape codes, such as the shape 21(a).

A sandblasted, half-sized (or demi-) churchwarden version of the shape 48, giving it the shape code 848H. Image courtesy Tony LaSala of Mr Stanwell Pipes.

In the 1960s and 1970s, some churchwarden pipes were redesigned using the stummel designs of existing shapes, such as the 30, with a letter added after the shape code designating whether the pipe was a demi-warden (H) or a full-sized churchwarden (L). Confusingly, other 1960s churchwardens had their own shape codes, with no extra letter appended, such as the 15(a).

At some point in the 1980s, Stanwell introduced the first H. C. Andersen pipe (cutty shape, full churchwarden stem, unnumbered), effectively replacing the previous churchwarden models. These earlier churchwardens are not present in any of the 1980s catalogs.

in the early 1990s, Stanwell partnered with Karl Erik to design a range of H. C. Andersen pipes, which were numbered (though not following from existing shape numbering conventions), and which included two stems (full churchwarden and regular). These will be discussed below.

'Superba' pipes

A Superba freehand. Image courtesy Smokingpipes.com.

At some point between 1970 and 1990, Stanwell sold the 'Superba' line of pipes. These pipes were crafted in the same manner as their earlier freehand pipes and did not conform to Stanwell's catalog of established shapes, however 'Superba' pipes were still often closer to classical designs, or to designs in the emerging Danish tradition, than the freehand pipes Stanwell sold in the 1960s. Two examples are given below, as a means of indicating the range of design approaches found in 'Superba' pipes. These pipes were simply stamped 'Superba,' along with Stanwell's brand nomenclature, and were not numbered.

'TE' Pipes

When Tom Eltang worked as a sales representative for Stanwell, he procured a few pre-turned bowls from the Borup factory, which he finished himself to present when liaising with vendors across Europe. These pipes are distinguished by an encircled 'TE' in the nomenclature.

'Winsløw' Pipes

When Poul Winsløw worked as a sales representative for Stanwell, he made his own versions of Stanwell shapes to present when liaising with vendors across Europe, sometimes with distinct design changes. These pipes are distinguished by the addition of 'WINSLØW' in the nomenclature.

A 'Superba' freehand. Image courtesy Valeria eBay.

Other non-numbered shapes

A few of Stanwell's post-1948 catalog shapes have not been designated by numbers, but instead by names. Some of these pipes have been reissues of popular shapes with a few minor adjustments, while some have been original shapes, as with the Hans Christian Andersen line. Here they are listed alphabetically, along with corresponding shape numbers in the standard catalog, where applicable.

  • Blowfish; originally Tom Eltang's shape 230.
  • Boa; shape 198.
  • Calabash; Jess Chonowitsch's shape 162 (1990s, see catalog).
  • Compact; shape 235, originally used for the 'Island Pipe' series.
  • Diamond; shape 203 (1990s, see catalog).
  • Facet; Jess Chonowitsch's shape 163.
  • Golf; Jess Chonowitsch's shape 168.
  • Hexagon
  • Lilje; shape 206.
  • Liverpool
  • Lotus; shape 204.
  • Omega; Jess Chonowitsch's shape 167.
  • Rhodesian; two versions, both designed by S. Bang, either their 170 or their 173.
  • Trio; Tom Eltang's shape 164 (not to be confused with the 'Trio' line of pipes).
  • Tulip; shape 226 (1990s, see catalog).
  • Viking; Jess Chonowtisch's shape 172.

List by designer

  • Sixten Ivarsson: 01 (Nefertiti), 01 (Pick Ax), 02, 06, 07, 09, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20 (Boat), 20 (Bent Dublin), 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 30, 32 (Free Hand), 33, 34, 35 (Bent Free Hand), 37, 38, 41, 43, 48, 55, 59, 62, 63, 64, 70 (Free Hand Volcano/Sitter), 75 (Billiard w/oval shank), 79, 82, 85 (Bent e), 86, 87, 90, 91R, 95, 96, 105, 110, 119, 124, 2606, POY 1993.
  • Tom Eltang: 32 (redesign), 84, 126, 129, 131,135, 136, 137, 138, 164, 177, 180, 181, 190, 204, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 227, 232, POY 1986, POY 1987, POY 1988, POY 1990, POY 1992, POY 1996, POY 1997, POY 1998, POY 2000, POY 2001, POY 2002, POY 2003, POY 2004, POY 2005.
  • Jess Chonowitsch: 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 156, 157, 158, 159, 161, 162 (Calabash), 163 (Facet), 166, 167, 168, 171 (Hexagon), 172 (Viking), 217, POY 1985, POY 1989, POY 1991.
  • Poul Winslow: 207, 234, POY 2017.
  • Anne Julie: 26, 35, 36, 183
  • Bang: 169, 170, 178, 179, 182, 189, POY 1989
  • Poul Ilsted: 215

Line-Specific Shape Variations

Stanwell has produced many different lines of pipes using numbered shapes from their catalog. Sometimes the difference between lines is the stain used, such as in the Golden Contrast line. Sometimes the difference is the quality of briar patterns, such as in the Flawless line. At other times, however, a set of established shape numbers have been used for a line of pipes where more significant formal variations differentiate these pipes from other lines using the same numbers. This can lead to confusion, as the same shape and shape number from one line may include very different features from the design most commonly associated with that shape, such as the addition of a mount or ferrule or a difference in stem type. Nevertheless, these pipes are, by Stanwell's own designation, the 'same' shape, with the same corresponding shape number (in some instances, an extra digit is added to the original number, however). To help in clearing up potential confusion, a list of Stanwell lines featuring significant variations from established shapes and shape numbers are presented here in alphabetical order:

  • Antique. Half-sandblasted with amber-like red or yellow acrylic ferrules and flared push stems. Standard shape codes (e.g. Antique 25 = a variation of shape 25).
  • Army Mount. Inclusion of a metal army/military mount with a tapered stem. Standard shape codes.
  • Brazilia. Inclusion of either a horn shank accent with either no other design changes; or a horn ferrule and push flared stem if the ferrule serves as a faux-mount. Brazilia pipes do not have shape numbers on their stamping, but are easily identifiable as established, standard shapes in the Stanwell catalog.
  • Buffalo. Inclusion of a horn-like acrylic shank accent. Standard shape codes.
  • Design Choice. Smooth finish with vulcanite mounts and flared push stems. Shape codes are three digits, the last two designating the shape these pipes are variations of (e.g., Design Choice 835 = a variation of shape 35). Not to be confused with Designer Line.
  • Diamond. Inclusion of a black or dark red acrylic shank accent sandwiched between thin brass bands, with no other design changes; or with an acrylic ferrule and a flared push stem if the ferrule serves as a faux-mount. No shape numbers, but standard shapes. Not to be confused with the Black Diamond line.
  • Flora Danica. Inclusion of either silver (red stained pipes) or gold (black stained pipes) floral band at the end of the shank. Standard shape codes.
  • Gilt Edged Gilt Edged pipes were standard shapes, with standard shape codes, however the pipe designs included a golden band around the rim and the shank end, hence the name.
  • Nostalgie. Nostalgie was a German market (filter) only line of classic, discontinued shapes from Stanwell's catalog. Each pipe featured a silver band and a plaque with the German word 'Nostalgie' (in English, 'Nostalgia') on it. No shape codes.
  • Royal Bark. Royal Bark was a sandblast-only line sold in the 1950s. The shapes conformed to the standard shape catalog, however their numbering featured an extra digit at the front (e.g., 665 would be a shape 65 Dublin, but in a sandblasted finish).
  • Silhouette. Dark brown, almost black, stain, with no formal variations aside from an ivory band separating the stem from the shank. Standard shape codes.
  • Silver Mount. Inclusion of a metal faux-military mount. Standard shape codes.
  • Zebrano. Inclusion of a zebrawood shank accent. Standard shape codes.

Stanwell Catalogs Gallery

1950s

From an early 1950's catalog, courtesy DanishPipeMakers.com
From an early 1950's catalog, courtesy DanishPipeMakers.com
From an early 1950's catalog, courtesy DanishPipeMakers.com
From an early 1950's catalog, courtesy DanishPipeMakers.com
From a late 1950's catalog, courtesy DanishPipeMakers.com
From a late 1950's catalog, courtesy DanishPipeMakers.com
From a late 1950's catalog, courtesy DanishPipeMakers.com
From a late 1950's catalog, courtesy DanishPipeMakers.com
From a late 1950's catalog, courtesy DanishPipeMakers.com
From a late 1950's catalog, courtesy DanishPipeMakers.com
From a late 1950's catalog, courtesy DanishPipeMakers.com
From a late 1950's catalog, courtesy DanishPipeMakers.com
Courtesy Doug Valitchka
Courtesy Doug Valitchka