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The
History of Kai and Viggo Nielsen - Viggo Nielsen,
A master and legendary pipe artisan is considered
to be one of the most influential forces in the
evolution of the Danish Pipe. Born in 1927, Viggo
began making pipes in 1945 at the very young age
of eighteen. Viggo's love and passion for the
art of crafting pipes inspired him to study and
work long hours to perfect his skills. His dedication
and hard work helped Viggo reach a level of expertise
that has gained him the repect and admiration
of discriminating pipe connoisseurs throughout
the world.
Kai
Nielsen, Viggo's oldest son, was born in 1951
in Vordingborg, Denmark. When he was a teenager,
Kai worked for "pocket money" at the
Bari pipe factory. At this time, the Bari factory
was owned in part by Viggo Nielsen. In 1972, at
the age of 21, Kai began working full time at
the factory. The factory was sold in 1975 and
shortly after, Viggo, Kai, and Jorgen (Kai's younger
brother) joined forces and began making pipes
together. Kai studied and learned the "art
of pipe making" under the careful eye of
his father, Viggo. Kai's hard work and love for
the craft was evident in each pipe he made. His
designs and skills were soon noticed and admired
by many.
Today,
Kai and Viggo work together in a studio located
on the island of Fyn. Jorgen is making pipes in
his own studio. Kai, like his father, selects
only the finest aged briar, most of which is Corsican.
He also air cures the briar to provide exceptional
smoking qualities. Kai's handcut acrylic and cumberland
mouthpieces are works of art. His attention to
detail and creative designs are overwhelming.
Kai
Nielsen pipes are available in the following models:
Kai Nielsen and Niels Bro. His pipes are offered
in the following finishes: Smooth and Sandblast.
There are five grades available: V,VV,VVV,VVVV,
Jewel of Denmark C, Jewel of Denmark B, and Jewel
of Denmark A. Kai's production is limited to approximately
450 pipes per year.
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