Sharing the ancient secrets of wood: a visit to Alvise Boccanegra’s workshop
For Alvise Boccanegra restoring furniture – that is to say working with an eclectic living material like wood – is more than a job: it’s a way of life. Visiting his workshop is a real treat, and participants will be shown the wide variety of tools and materials used to bring pieces back to life. Alvise will illustrate some ancient techniques he learned from his master (such as tempera and gilding), the characteristics of various kind of woods suitable for different applications and will also share his personal experience in managing this craft.
Hidden treasure For your eyes
Alvise Boccanegra
Furniture restoringWhen restoration is a way of lifeAfter a few years at university, where he studied chemistry applied to conservation, Alvise Boccanegra understood that he had different dreams. So he made contact with a restoration workshop inside the Curia of San Marco, where he met his master, Maximilian Leuthenmayr, and where he remained for the next seven years. He credits his master for having "a deep desire to convey his knowledge, while normally craftsmen don't reveal their secrets". A few years later, Alvise set up on his own. "It was hard at the beginning, when I opened my workshop," he says. "It’s not that easy to convince customers to trust you. Now I can’t complain, there’s so much work."
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
30125, Venice
+39 328 422 11 36 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.
