The local legacy of Brazilian pewter
- Fábio and Deise create objects with traditional pewter metal
- Their practice moves between English and colonial traditions, and contemporary design
- They develop authorial collections in collaboration with designers and stores
Deise and Fábio Reis are among Brazil's few remaining custodians of pewter making. They founded their workshop Imperial Estanhos in 2000, to continue the legacy of John Somers, who had introduced the craft to São João del Rei. Today, every step of Deise and Fábio's making process remains handmade, from casting and lathe turning to assembly and finishing. "Pewter is an eternal metal. It was very popular historically, as it melts at low temperature and is easy to work with over stoves," they explain. Today, the craft's continuity worries the duo most, as very few people are training to work with pewter. "What we make is guided by a deeper sense of purpose. We aim to value and honour our local heritage. We are proud to be part of something larger, a meaningful thread in this legacy," Deise and Fábio say.
Interview
- What was it like establishing Imperial Estanhos?
- Deise: When we started out, our entire product line fit into a single suitcase. We had a mug, a chalice, a candlestick, a liqueur bottle and a small shot cup. We travelled to the capital with that suitcase, and visited clients door to door. At that time, there was no internet, only phone books and cold calls.
- Where did you learn pewter making?
- Fábio: I trained by working in pewter factories in São João del Rei, starting with basic tasks and gradually moving to the lathe. It is a demanding craft that relies on daily practice, patience and natural aptitude. Normally, of every 10 people who begin, only one or two continue.
- What is the Imperial Estanhos’ Geographic Indication seal?
- Deise: This seal recognises our workshop's strict adherence to traditional pewter making, with fully handcrafted production, pure alloy and certified protocols unique to São João del Rei.
- Is there a particularly memorable moment from your journey?
- Fábio: When Pope Francis came to Brazil for World Youth Day, the sacred vases used during the final Mass on Copacabana Beach had been made by us.
Fábio & Deise Reis are expert artisans: they began their career in 2000
Where
Fábio & Deise Reis
