Scott Klein: Sandblasted Fish with Briar Tobacco Pipe

Though most modern-day Blowfish renditions involve some manner of marked asymmetry to the flanks (thanks to the Japanese school's influence), it is this type of Ivarsson-inspired, more subtle bent Apple-like form which originally carried the nautical moniker, and it's always a treat to see a young artisan such as Scott Klein keeping it alive. At first glance, the teardrop line initiated by the shank so gracefully becomes one with the curvature of the left flank that it is nearly indistinguishable from the texture of the blasted grain. Looking closer, it's definitely there, offering a subtle ridge which makes its way very nearly to the bowl's rim. This is undoubtedly a testament to Scott's deft skill as a carver: imbuing a composition with subtle, yet thoroughly fleshed-out details, in such a way that as you explore them, it's like the maker was leaving you clues as to its pedigree.

- Daniel Bumgardner