Smooth Rose Bud with Bamboo Tobacco Pipe

When it comes to his Freehand shapes, Roman Kovalev tends to take a rather evocative approach to his designs, strongly alluding to their inspiration in the very shape of the piece itself. This Rose Bud is a fine example of that literal style. A very strange, organic type of shape, its tall, bulbous bowl, flaring plateaued rim, low-set transition, and plant stem-like buddha bamboo extension, indeed, all work to create the illusion of a budding rose bud when viewed from the profile. That said, it's still quite functional, however, maintaining a light weight and enough bend for an easy clench in the jaw, as well as quite a stimulating feel in hand. On top of that, Roman's still managed to use even such a wild design to showcase some stunning grain, which he's highlighted through a warm walnut contrast. Beautiful work, and one of Roman's more creative shapes to be sure.

- Andrew Wike