Deep, broad-flanked, yet thin-sectioned shanks are a signature Vladimir Grechukhin often employs, a simple element on its face, but one which serves to accentuated a full and rounded bowl and yet simultaneously maintain a balanced look in profile. Here he's applied this shaping cue to a rather short, compactly-proportioned bent Apple design, wherein it is also very effective in making the briar that much more convenient in hand, freeing up a lot of space along the rear face of the bowl. Of course, it also allows for that much more canvas upon which to display a fine ring grain, too.
- Eric N. Squires
