The Genuine Knockcroghery Clay Pipe

This is the traditional clay pipe that has been crafted in Knockcroghery, Ireland for 300 years. A thriving industry in the late 1800s, production of the dúidín ceased abruptly in 1921 when the village was burned during the Irish War of Independence. This pipe is handmade on the site of Andrew and P.J. Curley's pipe factory-destroyed during the conflict-with the same tools, methods, and surviving molds of the originals. A traditional fixture at wakes, trays of tobacco-filled pipes were offered to mourners, who after dipping the shank in whisky or Guinness to both seal and impart a good flavor to the clay mouthpiece, would smoke then break the pipes while saying "Lord have mercy." This pipe is decorated with the shamrock and harp, two of Ireland's most renowned motifs. Today they are a popular groomsman's gift, considered proper for celebrating one's cultural heritage. Presented in a gift box. 6" L x 1 1/2" H. (8 oz.)