AusBonsai

totally agree with ya mate. and honestly with reverse taper, sometimes i dont think it can affect a tree, depending on the style and such i think it can actually help with the overall design. in this case i dont think of it as a problem, i think it works.
IMO i think that the reverse taper on some trees attract interest in a natural style, not detract from them.
this is in certain cases obviously, but on this one i like it, it shows a gnarled, nearly stressed approach that the tree has gone through some issues through its life and then (once foliage, branch placement and ramification is devloped) has come through it all and is surviving with flying colours and has withstood the test of time.
thats my insight to this fella any way!

An up date as this tree is now starting to grow and put out growth so I will have a better idea of where it is going.
As I said at the beginning it has faults galore, but I do see a future for this tree as a nice Shohin.

Cheers Pup

Oh ya bloody ruined it Pup you should have gone for my sugestion
Just kidding looking great!