Misc. Estates: Sam Cui Smooth Reverse Calabash Freehand Tobacco Pipe

Sam Cui has worked in a variety of artistic fields, such as Japanese cuisine, photography, and woodworking. Now, the Chinese artisan lends his aesthetic eye to pipe making. Cui's portfolio consists mainly of Freehand shapes that possess the gestural, flowing profiles typical of the Danish school. However, pipes such as his Double Acorn showcase his willingness to experiment and offer his unique, personal take on pipe design.

This Freehand by Sam Cui is an excellent illustration of asymmetrical pipe making. The stummel showcases a "twist," as the bowl tilts slightly to the right and the shank face to the left. Although these elements are not congruent, their parallel qualities are enhanced due to the reverse Calabash construction, which results in the mortise being nearly the same size as the chamber. Cui utilizes asymmetry in his line work as well, as the right flank is entirely framed by a singular wrapping ridgeline, while the left flank presents concentric ridgelines that create an intriguing aesthetic. However, the most impressive part of this pipe is the upper arc between the bowl and shank, as crisp outcroppings protrude outward, framing a circular curve from the side but showcasing asymmetry from the top, a gorgeous display of Cui's talents. Additionally, the stummel is dressed in a chestnut smooth finish, which highlights birdseye on the flanks and cross grain that wraps around the central ridge of the stummel.