Claudio Cavicchi: Bologna 2020 Two Pipe Set with Claudio Albieri Leather Presentation Box (01/05) Tobacco Pipe

Those familiar with such things will tell you that Italian leather is well-known as the very best, a result of unparalleled craftsmanship and careful attention to detail. And in the realm of pipe accessories, there is little question whose name stands apart from the fold: Claudio Albieri. It seems undeniably fitting, then, that when another revered Claudio (namely, Cavicchi) decided to craft an extraordinary limited-edition run of two pipe sets, he would turn to Albieri to make some special leather presentation boxes.

As for the pipes themselves, Cavicchi has fashioned two distinct Billiard shapes, a bent and a straight version that reflect his appreciation for bold, hearty proportions. Both pieces also showcase Claudio's exquisite finishing techniques and gifted ability when it comes to extracting stunning grain from any briar block he touches. From shaping to grain orientation and the overall presentation, this superlative set leaves nothing to be desired.

The first pipe within the set wears a gorgeous, light honey-blonde stain, accentuating the briar's beautiful grain patterns, namely the impressively tight streaks of vertical grain that wrap around the bowl's flanks. The second piece wears a crisp, terracotta-hued sandblast, which has unveiled a consistent array of undulating grain while the flat rim has been left smooth and stained a light chestnut hue. Each pipe is then stamped "Bologna 2020" in honor of the carver's hometown and is presented in a display box made by Albieri out of supple, high-quality leather. The case wears a matching stamp within, is presented with two soft, leather-lined compartments, and is set with Claudio Cavicchi's logo on the lid. Only five sets were made for this special series, with this particular example serialized as number one, making it all the more desirable.