Sandblasted Blowfish (Turtle) Tobacco Pipe

Given Gabriele Dal Fiume's penchant for softly rounded, full-bodied shapes, it comes to little surprise to see his take on the Blowfish follows suit — forgoing much of the modern design's disc-like panels in lieu of smooth, plump curves. In some respects, it's a much subtler take on the Blowfish than you'd typically see from current American, Danish, and Japanese carvers, essentially following Gabriele's model for the bent Apple design, only with a well-defined teardrop shank and twin ridges flowing down the center of the bowl; yet on the other hand, it shows its fair share of complexity as well, especially in the Heeschen-esque cheeking that's been applied to the area around the transition and flanks, as well as the quick, sweeping gesture of the silhouette itself. Subtle or complex, either way, it's a great rendition from the venerable artisan, finished here in a warm contrast-stained sandblast — showcasing both flame and ring grain alike.

- Andrew Wike