Reassuringly simple, while simultaneously exceedingly complex, there aren't many artisan carvers who produce renditions of the iconic Foursquare design — making this piece from Ryan Alden a special treat. It's a perfect iteration of the classic English shape, proudly displaying four panels along its tall bowl, with rounded corners to soften the in hand feel. Adding to that complexity, Ryan has taken advantage of the spectacular English Cross Cut grain pattern and made this a smooth piece, making this piece all the more special again. Just to add to the already overwhelming Englishness of the piece, Ryan has chosen to finish it in a Bruyere-style ruby finish, paired to a tapered Cumberland stem.

— Adam M. O'Neill