Started in 1972 by Terenzio Cecchini and Giancarlo Guidi, Mastro de Paja has long been recognized as makers of some of the finest hand made pipes in the world. In 1980 Alberto Montini, current owner, took over the reigns of the company. Montini cut back production and stressed quality over quantity, assembling a team of five of Italy`s finest carvers to bring the company to world wide prominence. Noted for the superb graining of their carefully chosen, highest-quality briar, the inventive and expert silver work, and the genius designs of Montini, the Mastro de Paja pipe is a jewel that would be highly regarded in anyone`s collection.