Harmonious of shape, quite in stature, and gorgeously composed, this Dublin represents much of what is first-rate in a pipe from the venerable Japanese carver Smio Satou. The bowl, with its sloped, cambered rim, and sharp lip, is appropriately comfortable in the hand, what with its casual oblong form, deep set, deliciously soft, rounded heel, and ultra slick polished surface. The grain present here is exquisite, with contrasted locks of blonde, amber, and light walnut raked vertically across the piece, most notably along its right side. This is indeed fantastic work from the carver.
-- Ted Swearingen
