Todd Johnson: Patinated Copper Leaf Blowfish (Hoplite) Tobacco Pipe

Already a skilled woodworker, Todd Johnson tried his hand at crafting his first pipe in 2000 and quickly took to the form. Influenced initially by Trever Talbert, Johnson broadened his horizons with stints learning under both Tom Eltang and Lars Ivarsson. Therefore, the Danish style is readily apparent in much of Johnson's work; however, formal studies in Aesthetics at Samford University and Yale gave Johnson a more comprehensive perspective on art, igniting his unique, genre-breaking style. Although shape-chart standard Billiards and Dublins do appear in Johnson's portfolio, much of his work showcases imaginative Freehands that range from familiar to one-of-a-kind. Furthermore, Johnson constantly experiments with finishing techniques and accenting materials while also putting a premium on internal engineering, ensuring each piece is a superb smoker.

This Blowfish by Todd Johnson immediately entices with its unique finish. Instead of a stain and accompanying smooth finish or sandblast, this piece is wrapped in copper leaf, which shines with burnished tones and golden-hued flourishes. Shape-wise, this piece showcases much that one expects from a Todd Johnson Blowfish, such as intricate, flowing linework, which is at its most impressive at a fin-like protrusion at the transition. Out back, the elongated, pentagonal shank arcs upward to the stem, and gently flares outward as it does so, manifesting a dynamic profile. Furthermore, the lightweight stummel is paired to an abbreviated saddle stem that is fashioned from brindled purple-and-teal vulcanite, imparting a deep, dark contrast against the gleaming copper leaf.