Abi Natur Standing Figure Deux # 1043 *New*

Abi's Raindrop/Teardrop  shows the influence of Constantin Brâncuși a Romanian sculptor, painter who lived in France, and is one of the most prominent sculptors of the 20th century, a key initiator of modernism. Guggenheim & MOMA have his work. 

Unusually for a sculptor he often worked it wood. So to compare Abi's work to his gives one a clear sense how a pipe can also be a sculpture. As this one definitely is. One of the most interesting pieces - not just as a  pipe - I have seen in long time.

When you look at this pipe, sculpture, carefully, the fusion of five different shapes, is seen. Look at it's profile  and the base teardrop shape comes forth, the first standing one, fusing with the  Cavalier, to achieve such, then a Japanese delicate leaf type back that flows over the top, an egg shaped bowl bottom, and a touch of plateau on the rim. It has superb flame grain on the front sides, upper back, with tight  birdseye on the bottom back. A testament to Abi's skill in pipe shaping and reading the wood. All the elements work together to make this an absolutely unique expression of what a pipe can be. 

Few pipe makers attempt high shanked pipes because it is hard to get the drilling right. In most cases the air hole comes in a bit high. And as a collector, if it talks to you, you accept it. Kent Rasmussen studied the Raindrop's I had at Chicago, years ago. He took two to Teddy Knudsen, when he came back, he said ...'a hard to pipe to drill properly'.... 

This is the 1st one I have ever seen with the drilling as near perfect as can be. I have had over 450 of variations of this shape since 2001.  It passes a cleaner easily. Perfect sitter. I forgot to mention it is also a stunner.  

Measurements & Details:

Length: 6 1/2"/ 165 mm (top-bottom)

Bowl Height: 1 7/8"/ 48 mm 

Bowl Depth:  1 1/4" / 31 mm

I.B. Dia: 13/16" / 20 mm

O.B. Dia:  2" / 51 mm

Weight: 2.55 oz / 74 gm

Stem: Vulcanite

Filter: None

Finish: Smooth

Briar: Italian Ligurian 

Country: Montenegro