Alessandro of PantaRei ceramics made this brush for me based on my suggestions and a crude sketch. It illustrates a story that Buddha told to a disciple regarding the preciousness of our human life. The handle is quite hefty requiring a manly grip. It's a 30mm Manchurian knot set quite low and exhibited some gentle scrub during the first palm lather. This is a wonderful addition to my den and won't be put away to make room for others in the rotation. It will remain out to remind me daily of my good fortune. Fresh out of box: First lather: First bloom, still damp: