Dive into the Venetian paper tradition: from book binding to paper marbling
After a bookbinding demonstration, walk into the hidden marbling laboratory of Antica Legatoria Ofer and watch the ancient painting technique to decorate paper. The colour is dripped onto the surface of water, where it floats for a few minutes while the craftsman manipulates the drops to create the desired shapes. At the end of this fast process a sheet of paper is placed on the surface of the liquid absorbing the colour and its refined designs. The Turkish word "Ebrù" derives from the Persian "ebri" which means "cloudy", alluding to the ephemeral and changing nature of the images that are created on the water. As well as promoting creativity and respecting the ancient craft, the Legatoria operates with regard for environmental sustainability, preferring slow processing and low environmental impact papers.
Venetian heritage Hidden treasure Paper lover
Antica Legatoria Ofer
Bookbinding, MarblingA future for our traditionsThe Antica Legatoria Ofer arrives in Venice incorporating the legacy of Alberto Valese, renowned creator of marbled, ebrù and stamped papers. The "craft" is continued by a group of young artisans who have learnt the traditional methods and develop new objects and patterns. Our challenge is to retrace this history by combining the elegance of the ancient Venetian school with the vitality and youth of passionate and enthusiastic young artisans. The result is an ever-expanding collection of unrepeatable papers, elegant and unique, which are then used to produce bookbinding objects and other exclusive items. At Antica Legatoria Ofer in Campo Santo Stefano you can also find a variety of prints, handmade with wooden or silicone plates, the most famous of which feature three iconic Venetian buildings: the elegant Ca' d'Oro, the cursed Ca' Dario, and the majestic Palazzo Ducale.
Audio guide
A free audio guide, available to stream from 10 April to 1 May, will enhance your experience of Homo Faber in Citta. Discover more about Venice, its crafts workshops and its heritage as a city of craftsmanship, to complement your personal tour.
ListenWhere you'll be
30124, Venice
+39 041 458 3055 Send an email Website
Things to know
- Guest requirements
Please stay informed about the latest Covid safety requirements in Venice and comply with any requests from the venues you visit, to ensure the safety of yourself and the participating artisans.
- When to arrive
Make sure you arrive on time at each venue (although no more than ten minutes early), to make the most of your experience and the artisan’s time. Please call the venue ahead of time if you are likely to be late.
- Cancellation policy
Please let us know if you wish to cancel your booking so that we may offer the opportunity to another visitor. Cancel or rebook directly on your account or via your confirmation or reminder email. If cancelling on the day of your event, kindly inform the venue by telephone.
