Smooth Bent Brandy with Horn (Kikuchi) (F) (025) (2018) Tobacco Pipe

Asami Kikuchi's bent Brandy shapes have always been eye catchingly soft, each composition giving the impression of a piece that must be held to be truly enjoyed. In the case of this example, it's particularly true — I reached for it immediately, between the vivid lines of flame grain surrounding the bowl, to the long horn ferrule, and Kikuchi's crisp, pointed use of line. The latter is of particular interest, giving the piece a crisp transition that allows the bowl an almost perched disposition at the end, while allowing the ferrule to flare slightly near the stem. Elegant work, and perfectly iconic of Kikuchi's style.