Smooth Blowfish (2008) Tobacco Pipe

The Blowfish is a shape we rarely see from Li Zhesong, but this rendition from the Chinese carver is particularly impressive, highlighting his meticulous eye for precise line work and maximizing the grain orientation of each briar block. The shank features a teardrop-esque ridgeline along the lower left side, which continues along the stummel's underside and wraps around the bowl's fore to join the rim, ending in a crisp point. The shape's signature disc-like panels are softer than most Blowfish renditions tend to be, with the right flank slightly more exaggerated compared to the left side.

Grain orientation is an important aspect of the Blowfish shape and Zhesong has expertly demonstrated that here with this piece. Seas of swirling birdseye populate the rounded flanks while a lane of cross grain runs perfectly in between them with everything made even more visually stunning thanks to the vivid contrast stain Li applied. For added practicality and durability, the Chinese artisan has reinforced the mortise with a brass inset ring, creating a mount-style tenon configuration while the metal's hue pairs handsomely with the golden-tinged contrast stain.