Smooth Asymmetric Fig with Bamboo Tobacco Pipe

Fairly reminiscent of his "Speeding" shapes, this take on the "Fig" from Herbaugh has no shortage of forward momentum. There's a distinct cant to the unique bowl, emphasized by the gently tapered heel which forms the fulcrum for the satisfying balance of this spectacular piece. Once again Abe manages to incorporate bamboo into his design with the true grace of a master craftsman: as the well-spaced knuckles rise up the shank, the expectation of a final knuckle before the bit is met with a seamless transition into the vulcanite stem, highlighted by a clever diagonal saddle, giving the appearance of one more knuckle. Flame grain rides the underside of the bulbous bowl, coming to a head at dazzling birdseye around the rim.

— Daniel Bumgardner