Heinrich Hetzer

Brokatmanufaktur

Restorer

Bringing historical fabrics back to life

Heinrich is a world expert in ancient looms
He has recreated fabrics for carriages and castles
He is also passionate about steam locomotives

Heinrich first encountered weaving machinery while visiting his aunts during summer holidays as a child. These days, the Austrian textile engineer has an unparalleled knowledge of warps, wefts and weaving mechanics. In pursuit of technical improvements, he started tinkering with traditional looms by adding computerised innovations, allowing him to recreate historical fabrics. One example is the brocade textile he created for the Red Salon of Schloss Esterházy, each thread identical to the original dating from the early 18th century. Another is the regal splendour of the curtains he recreated for the carriage which drove Prince Esterhazy to the coronation of emperor Franz II in 1792.

Interview

Your life story seems intertwined with the history of Vienna…: During the Viennese Classical period, the region was a centre for silk weaving, and my family was instrumental in the field in many ways. I find it fascinating to investigate the thought patterns of my ancestors through their weaving.
Can you describe a memorable moment in your career?: The reception at the Stadtpalais Liechtenstein in Vienna with my fabric on the walls. Seeing my fabric through the eyes of dignitaries such as our nation’s president suddenly made me look at them in a different light.
So craftsmanship is also about the audience?: A masterful creation brings as much joy to the maker as to the observer or owner. That is the beauty of my profession: it combines tradition with innovation, creates beauty and allows me to work independently. It also brings other people joy.
Mechanical devices spark a lot of joy for you?: Yes, not just looms. Steam engine locomotives do, too! After being in charge of the steam boiler in the textile studio as a boy, I pounded coals into the flames of a steam locomotive engine, and at 18 passed the exam as the train engine’s third man.

Heinrich Hetzer is a master artisan: he began his career in 1977 and he started teaching in 1977