Private Artisan Experience in Florence
Italy is synonymous with art & artists, with architecture, culture, archaeology & much more.
Tuscany and Florence in particular have always played an important part in the life of many infamous artists & artisans. That’s why Luxe has designed this tour which specifically aims at introducing you to some of the key artistic traditions of the region.
What Is Included In The Florence Artisan Tour?
A private local expert guide will accompany you to the workshops of 4 artisans:
- A visit to a Mosaic workshop
- A visit to a Paper Marbling shop
- A visit to a Leather workshop
- A visit to a Scagliola workshop
Florence Artisan Tour Description:
During this artisan tour your local expert guide will show you 4 different workshops where artisans will show you the processes of their art:
Mosaics:
The mosaics in this studio are produced entirely with the original techniques that date back to the 16th century. Every piece of stone is cut with a simple saw then covered with water and emery powder and so the pieces are glued together. All tools they use are of ancient origin as modern technology has been unable to reproduce the sense of beauty that true mosaics artists require.
Paper Marbling:
The art of paper marbling is used to for example cover sacred books, finish leather books, and more.
It has been around in Florence since the 16th century and also here the original technique from that period is still being used. During your visit to the paper marbling shop, you will see how they thin the color with gall and drip a jelly-like substance over the paper. Patterns are created by means of combs to be able to create an infinite number of beautiful designs.
Leather Workshop:
We have partnered together with a historic family of the Florentine artisan community. The workshop you will visit is a true family business and the products they produce are being made in a way that is both ancient and modern.
Here you will get the opportunity to see the production process of e.g leather bags, belts, wallets, keychains, and more – perfect for a souvenir or present!
Scagliola:
The art of Scagliola is a segment of mosaics but made of hard stones and marbles. It is used to create many different types of creations, like tables, panels, and/or jewelry.
You will meet a young artisan who has learned the trade from her father and opened her own shop in 2016 in Florence. The designs and patterns are endless and she will show you how to create them from scratch.
Florence Artisan Tour Itinerary Details
This tour will last for about 3.5 hours, in which you will visit and learn about the 4 different arts as described above.
Please note at some of the activities you will observe the masters at work and that there will not be any hands-on workshops included. However, if you would like to add a workshop to your experience, please contact us as we will be delighted to customize it for you.
