Smooth Fugu (Slonim) Tobacco Pipe

Much in the way of Umberto Boccioni's Futurist interpretations of anthropomorphic movement, this Fugu from Alex Florov hearkens to Tokutomi's heralded renditions of the classic form. At a glance, the piece exudes a disposition that seems to be rather wild. Upon closer inspection however, the shape reveals a sense of crisp control, balancing sweeping, ridged geometry with organic dynamism, evoking the impression of motion through water.

In profile, the form is unified by way of a single, unyielding line at the underside, the likes of which list off to the left to form the start of a diagonally-oriented shank-face. From above, this portion evokes the look of an apostrophe, and that it acts as an "accent" to the striking bowl makes this all the more apropos. Accordingly, the bowl travels off to the right to counteract the directional sweep of the shank, which also allows for a bit more space around the transition to accommodate the fingers. This pipe is exceptionally well-grained, and only a carver of Alex Florov's skill could possibly fashion such a dynamic piece with nary a grain line out of place. Adorned with several kisses of plateau at the left flank, this Slonim-grade (the carver's highest) is undoubtedly deserving of its venerated stamping.