Perfection that lies in hidden details
- Daniele creates brass and bronze objects for designers, architects and artists
- He is the third generation to run his workshop
- He believes that bronzesmithing craftsmanship should be protected through reinvention
As a child, Daniele Bagatti knew he would become a bronzesmith when he grew up. "I learned my craft in my father's workshop, who in turn had learned from my grandfather," he says. Daniele's family atelier, Bagatti Bronzisti, was founded in 1927 and has a long history of collaborations, mainly in developing lighting devices. His father, Giampiero Bagatti, collaborated with the Italian architect and designer Livio Castiglioni, to create the first lighting device with a halogen lamp, the iconic Scintilla produced by Fontana Arte. "The age-old craft of bronzesmithing has not changed much over time, and today, I reinterpret it in my own innovative ways," Daniele says. He collaborates with contemporary artists, designers and architects on studies and prototypes in his workshop.
Interview
- Is bronzesmithing an endangered craft?
- I feel I have a great responsibility towards my craft. Unfortunately, there are only a few of us bronzesmiths left. Every time a workshop closes, a real wealth of knowledge is lost. We need to constantly reinvent ourselves to keep up with the times.
- What does working with metals involve?
- Knowing and recognising the quality of metals is fundamental, because each metal has its own properties, such as their fragility, plasticity and other mechanical characteristics. Each stage of processing has its own techniques, which require time, passion, manual skills and patience, but the rewards are great.
- When do you know that an object is completed to perfection?
- In Bagatti Bronzisti, we always say that a perfect piece is reflected in every detail, especially in its hidden or unseen parts. Objects deserve attention and respect in their entirety.
- What keeps your passion for bronzesmithing alive?
- I like it because it is independent and creative. I have the opportunity to produce unique artefacts that are destined to last over time. The works are born from stimulating relationships and collaborations with architects, designers and artists. Each project is different from the other, in keeping with trends.
Daniele Bagatti is an expert artisan: he began his career in 1992
Works
Where
Daniele Bagatti
