This was my first year making the Sephora VIB cut so I was looking forward to the 20% sale, making my list and checking it twice. I went back and forth several times thinking about what I wanted, what I needed and caused myself a lot of unnecessary stress. When the thought of spending money on beauty products causes you stress, it's probably a sign you need a new hobby. That's what I told myself and in the end I just chose one luxurious brush to use my 20% discount on: the Surratt Artistique Sculpting Brush.
Surratt brushes aren't highly talked about but they're hand made in Japan like the popular Hakuhodo, Chikuhodo, Wayne Goss and Suqqu brushes. The Artistique Sculpting Brush is made of natural hairs which I presume are blue squirrel as it is oh-so-soft. This is the least expensive face brush in the Surratt line, priced at $90. Yes, it is remarkably expensive but if you're looking for an incredibly silky, soft brush and are willing to take care of your tools, this is a brush you should consider.
The brush handle is lightweight and the overall length of the brush is on the short side. It's about the same height as my Chikuhodo brushes. I prefer brushes of this size as they're easy to hold and are good for traveling (although I rarely take my pricey brushes on trips with me). The black handle fades into a shimmery purple and teal shade which is rather unique.
Compared to other angled face brushes in my collection, the Surratt brush is the smallest. It's also definitely the most soft and high quality without a doubt. The middle brush is by Zoeva and the one on the right is one from Walmart. While the other two brushes are a bit fluffy and fan out, the Surratt brush holds together better so you can get more precise powder placement.
I plan on using this brush mostly with bronzers and contour powders but perhaps blush as well. It's a bit too large to use for highlight but I can see this working with something like the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powders since they're not straight-up sparkle. So far I'm beyond pleased by this brush and I'm so happy that Sephora stocks the Surratt line. I've felt all the brushes at Barneys and can confirm they all feel wonderful. I already have plans to purchase several more of the brushes but am biding my time....