Smooth Rhodesian with Horn (J) (298) (2015) Tobacco Pipe

Compared to the charmingly stout and chubby renditions from Asami Kikuchi and the more sinuous, Danish-Japanese classics we've seen previously, this is quite a different take on the Rhodesian shape from Tsuge Ikebana. The undulating waistline of the bowl, the strong taper and saddle-like bevel to the rim itself, the lifting heel paired with a sharper base, the upward-orientation of the shank, even the slightly asymmetrical face of the horn ferrule... they all combine to form a very dynamic, yet balanced silhouette in profile — one that's classically inspired, but all Tsuge through and through. It's finished in a light blonde contrast, highlighting some impressive flame grain across the board, with fiery birdseye scattered across the elongated rim. Gorgeous piece.

- Andrew Wike