Jens "Tao" Nielsen began his career as a sailor, exploring the world. After a stint in the military, he planned to return to sea but changed course after meeting and marrying a woman. Seeking a job closer to home, he joined Wilhelm Jorgensen's Copenhagen pipe shop, then apprenticed under Erik Nording, where he crossed paths with Poul Ilsted. Together, they co-founded the Svendborg brand in 1970. While successful, the focus on mass-produced pipes led both Tao and Poul to pursue independent paths. Tao's style, influenced by his seafaring background, is characterized by sturdy, compact designs, often accented with silver shank-bands and classic black vulcanite, cumberland, or amber-colored acrylic stems. He occasionally collaborates with Poul Ilsted under the name Tao & Ilsted.
A Classic Bulldog with a twist. Stout and Robust come to mind with a touch of grace. A deep finish enhances the mezmerizing grains on this compact shape. An angled Amberoid stem inlay provides a complimenting contrast to the red hues of the Cumberland Stem and Finish on the bowl.
This pipe is unsmoked and in mint condition. The original Sleeve and Box are included with the pipe.
- Length:
- 4.64 in / 11.8 cm
- Bowl Height:
- 1.65 in / 4.2 cm
- Bowl Width:
- 1.98 in / 5.0 cm
- Chamber Diameter:
- .73 in / 1.8 cm
- Chamber Depth:
- 1.18 in / 2.9 cm
- Weight:
- 1.9 oz / 55 g
- Origin:
- Made in Denmark
- Bowl Material:
- Briar
- Stem Material:
- Ebonite - Red/Black
- Filter:
- No Filter
- Markings:
- Danish, Handmade, TAO