Abe Herbaugh: Sandblasted Freehand Horn Tobacco Pipe

We have seen all manner of organic forms from Abe Herbaugh, such as his Fish, Volcano, and Egg renditions, but this is the first Nautilus-esque Freehand we have seen from the young carver. Simply put, it's an absolute delight: ripe with the crisp fluidity of Peter Heding's Horn renditions, though showcasing an asymmetrical dynamism in the form of diagonally oriented ridges which accentuate the continuity of the shape, this is the sort of piece that should constantly keep the fingers occupied. And if the shaping at play isn't enough, the real focal point here is certainly the sandblast, which lends the piece a rich, stimulating texture in hand, as well as a means of highlighting the muscularity of the composition at large. It fits beautifully in the hand, with the index finger wrapped securely around the curled shank, and with its chamber of Stack-like depth, I can readily imagine the long, flavorful smokes it's sure to provide a very lucky someone. As always, Abe's work never fails to impress.

- Daniel Bumgardner