Todd Johnson Phalanx Samurai Volcano Estate Briar Pipe, American Estates

Description

The 21st century has seen an explosion of new pipe-makers on the international artisan scene, one that, as of yet, shows no sign of stopping. But there is one artisan among them whose successes and impact on pipes writ large are so far unrivaled by any of his contemporaries. This would be Todd Johnson. Following his graduate studies in the arts at Yale University, Johnson was a woodworker for many years before turning his attention to handmade pipes. To develop his craft, Johnson traveled to Denmark, where he studied under Tom Eltang and Lars Ivarsson, developing a deep friendship with the latter. In the following years, Johnson would come to be recognized as a singular talent, with his works commanding the kind of attention (and prices!) not seen since the heyday of Scandinavian pipe design. A firm believer in the role of good teachers, Johnson has himself mentored countless pipe-makers from the generations that have followed in his wake, paying forward the gifts he received from Tom and Lars, and then some.

This is the second Todd Johnson to arrive on my desk since yesterday, and like that one, it is a rare “Phalanx” grade, which Johnson has typically used, over the last 15 years or so, to designate his top-end output. It is also what has become one of his signature shapes, the “Samurai” volcano, characterized by a tall stature, a steep curvature from button to base, and bowl sides that almost appear to “drape” down the pipe’s sides, like the Japanese warrior’s skirting kusazuri. Given that this way of rendering the volcano shape has become a minor staple in the international artisan scene, it is a pleasure to become personally acquainted with one of the originals. What a shame that I won’t get to take it for a test drive.

The condition is great. Some minor inner rim darkening, but it’s clear that the previous, single owner took good care of it.

 

Details:

Length: 6.4″ / 162.5mm

Bowl Width: 0.78 / 19.81mm

Bowl Depth: 1.72″ / 43.68mm

Weight: 3.3oz / 94g