Angelo Fassi – Pipe Art from Italy with Personality
At the 2024 “Pfeiferei” pipe fair in Stuttgart-Vaihingen, we had the special opportunity to meet Angelo Fassi in person. There, he presented a selection of his handcrafted pipes, some of which immediately became part of our assortment. Accompanied by his wife, Fassi stood out not only for his courteous manner but also for his stylish, casually elegant appearance – a reflection of his products.
The Path to Pipe Making
Born in 1958 in Appiano Gentile, Italy, Angelo Fassi initially led a life far removed from the world of pipes: as a successful competitive judoka and later a practicing dental surgeon. But his passion for pipes began early. At just 14, he smoked one of his father's Savinelli pipes – a pivotal moment. By 16, he was visiting the workshop of Caminetto and deepening his fascination with the craft.
After many years in dentistry, Angelo decided in 2008 to turn his passion into a profession. A pipe-making course marked the beginning. After completing his training, he took over the tools of a retired craftsman and began building his own workshop. He received support and inspiration from renowned colleagues such as Gabriele Dal Fiume and Massimiliano “Il Duca” Rimensi.
Part of a Fine Network
Fassi is an active member of the esteemed Academia della Pipa – a collective of Italian pipe makers with the highest quality standards. His style is an elegant synthesis: shaped by Danish pipe aesthetics, enriched by Italian attention to detail. Influential figures like Maurizio Tombari (Le Nuvole) and the late Paolo Becker played a significant role in shaping his eye for forms and materials.
He’s happy to share his knowledge: he maintains a close professional partnership with pipe maker Roberto Franzini of Franz Pipes. They often appear together at trade shows – including at the 2024 “Pfeiferei.”
Character Pieces with Finesse: Fassi Pipes
Angelo Fassi’s pipes are based on classic models, which he reinterprets into distinctive forms. For example, he combines the wide bowl of a Pot with the elegant shank of a Liverpool. The result: pipes with character and balance. He primarily uses high-quality briarwood and ebonite. These materials are complemented by silver, horn, or fine woods – all left in their natural state.
For surface treatments, Fassi prefers both sandblasted and smooth polished finishes. He often works to music – particularly Brazilian Bossa Nova, which inspires him. On Instagram, he gives followers a glimpse into his creative process. Another personal passion: amateur radio, where he’s active under the callsign I2FVS.
On the Way to Full-Time Artistry
Angelo Fassi currently devotes himself to pipe making part-time – but he plans to fully transition from dentistry to craftsmanship by 2026. He produces around 50 pipes a year, which are mainly available through select Italian and Turkish specialty retailers – and of course at Zigarrenwelt.
