Abe Herbaugh: Partially Sandblasted Volcano Tobacco Pipe

West Virginia-based artisan Abe Herbaugh never ceases to amaze. The skill he possesses is stunning, though it's only natural, given his 10 years of prior experience as a guitar builder and numerous years carving handmade artisan pipes. Herbaugh has crafted Volcanoes for us several times in the past, though we haven't received one from him since 2016. Until now. This is quite a different take on the shape than those we've seen before, though it retains certain elements, such as an upward flicking shank, a dynamic forward momentum, and a keen sense of asymmetry.

This specific piece, however, showcases this asymmetry immaculately, as each element of its construction exists in a harmonious state of proportional balance. The wrapping ridgeline that frames the underside climbs higher on the right flank, reaching further toward the bowl than on the left, with the fore section contributing to the shank and stem's S-curve. In addition, the briar from the right flank of the underside has been removed to allow the left's to expand downward, creating an organic sense of motion which suffuses the entirety of the briar.

The shank has not only been curved upward tightly, it also flares outward at the end, creating a lenticular face which is tilted on its axis, with the ridges that meet it carved to curve into its apexes. From an aerial view se see the effect of the underside's removal of material, giving the left flank of the bowl a steeper, extended slope before reaching the slightly inflated rim. Dressing this pipe is a partial sandblast that covers the topside, save for the rim, with the entire underside and shank face finished smooth and covered with a beautiful contrast stain, showcasing a plethora of rich, dense birdseye underneath and flame grain on the shank face.