OK, so a Tabac stick and a Semogue 1305 are in the mail from Traditional Shaving. the "little toes" friendly and counter top friendly views, combined with the assurance that it's the same soap only in a different package, decided the issue. I'm certain i'll one day buy me the ceramic bowl version to sit proudly on my counter, but it should probably wait a year or 2...

thank you all for your advice
Grizli