Revealing what is essential
- Alexander keeps his studio strictly organized to stay focused
- He is fascinated by the character that shellac surfaces can develop
- He balances rule-bound restoration with creative personal woodwork
For Alexander von der Decken, everything begins with respect. He cares for his tools like medical instruments, selects his materials with clear intention, and trusts in time-tested techniques. His journey took him from cabinetmaking into the precision work of historical restoration, where he specialises in wood surfaces and the refined use of shellac. In every project, Alexander searches for what will last. "I always try to find the simplest way to reach the best possible result," he says. While restoration work follows the rules set by the object, his own designs give him room to explore form freely. Alexander's tableware unites clarity and warmth. Turned by hand and often ebonised, his sculptural pieces invite touch, become companions in daily rituals, and slowly gather the traces of time.
Interview
- How would you describe the layout of your workshop?
- It may look strict, but the order in my workspace is simply how I stay focused. I do not want to think about anything except the work in front of me. That means every tool must be in place and working. I take time each week to make sure the space supports that kind of attention.
- What might people not know about shellac?
- Shellac is a natural resin from the secretions of the lac insect Kerria lacca. Unlike chemical varnishes, it does not come in fixed finishes like matte or gloss. Instead, the final look depends on how the surface below the shellac is treated and which techniques are used in application. One interesting fact is that shellac can be dissolved with high-proof alcohol.
- What fascinates you most about shellac?
- What fascinates me is the beautiful, unique patinas shellac develops. Achieving the exact colour and surface texture in restoration is a craft I deeply enjoy. This living quality gives each piece its own story and character, making shellac truly special.
- How did you begin working independently?
- Before opening my studio in 2008, I travelled extensively with my craft, mainly to castles and churches and other historical sites in the regions of Bavaria and Poland. I learned a great deal from local craftspeople, especially how they used traditional tools alongside clever improvised solutions to carry out their work.
Alexander von der Decken is a master artisan: he began his career in 2005 and he started teaching in 2011
Where
Alexander von der Decken
