Giuliano Brollo

Woodcarver

©Giuliano Brollo

Keeper of Venetian traditions

Giuliano is a third generation woodcarver and gilder
His ingenuity is expressed through restoration work and one-of-a-kind creations
His activity revolves around traditional-style Venetian furniture

One of the first things that comes to mind when thinking of what life might have looked like in Venice in the 18th century is the splendour of its art and architecture, the mirror frames and the elaborate and precious gilded furniture. Giuliano Brollo’s skills in woodcarving and gilding delve into this tradition. Both a restorer and a maker, Giuliano proudly carries on the family tradition, with a clear vision in mind about how to preserve damaged works and create new ones. He employs traditional techniques, staying true to the authentic Venetian style. With workshops in Venice and San Dona’ del Piave, Giuliano has worked closely with art dealers, auction houses and private customers since 1982. His craft is a bridge between past and present, and each piece is executed with passion and ingenuity.

Interview

©Giuliano Brollo

©Giuliano Brollo

What has your family background taught you?: I grew up in the family workshop and had the privilege to learn first-hand from family and master artisans. I then carried on studying and researching with tools and techniques. My first work dates back to when I was 16. I made the balustrade of a staircase, reproducing the original one.
What inspires you?: I am a keeper of the tradition of the authentic Venetian style. I grew up in this environment, and I never cease to find inspiration in the city, its art and architecture. My mission is to preserve the splendour and elegance of furniture, frames, and wooden objects.
How do clients interact with your work?: I deal with specialists and connoisseurs, who are interested in commissioning new pieces of furniture or need my skills to restore and preserve family heirlooms or antique pieces. They understand my work. However, during trade shows, it can sometimes be frustrating to realise how little the general public knows about craftsmanship.
Is this why your mission is to preserve damaged works of art?: I think it is fundamental to spread the word about how much work it takes to restore and make furniture and objects. It is not only the actual hand work, but the study and the research behind it all. It takes time, passion, commitment and finding the right balance between style and function to achieve.

Giuliano Brollo is an expert artisan: he began his career in 1982