Todd Johnson: Smooth Ostrich with Mammoth Bone (Phalanx) (Q) Tobacco Pipe

At its core, this piece immediately calls to mind Todd's Samurai Volcano renditions, though the similarities begin and end pretty much at the bowl and shank. Where that piece is a seemingly forward-rushing number, this Ostrich is a proud, tall-standing composition balanced on a steadily arched, flaring vulcanite foot. Said foot also allows this piece to be a fully-functional Cavalier, while also evoking the look of this piece's namesake bird. Actually, viewed from that perspective, Todd's Volcano-like bowl becomes the animal's beak, and from its downward-curved look in profile, it almost looks like the animal is deep in slumber. An exquisite, regal piece from Todd here.