American Estates: Todd Johnson Smooth Blowfish (Hoplite) (2006) Tobacco Pipe

One of the preeminent American carvers, Todd Johnson has long been a prominent figure in the pipe world, both as co-founder of BriarWorks in Tennessee and for his own artistic creations. This Blowfish combines dynamic, crisp linework with a decidedly organic aesthetic for a striking profile. The forward-urging bowl is characterized by a teardrop-shaped panel on the left flank, with the form's disc-shaped facet bulging outward on the right, framed by distinctive, wavy ridgelines that begin along the rim. A gradually flaring, lengthy and multi-paneled shank extends from a low-set transition, the uptick barely discernible. The trajectory established by said shank continues through the faceted base of the stem, the attention to detail the artisan imbues this piece with simply stunning. The stummel is dressed in a smooth, vibrant stain that highlights the natural grain patterns of the briar, including cross grain and birdseye.