José Lourenço

Wood marquetry maker

Handcrafting romance in mysterious boxes

The first box José ever crafted was a 'love letter' to his wife
Concealed locks and chambers ensure each box holds surprises within
Marquetry adds both artistry and narrative to his craft

José Manuel Lourenço, a former electronics technician, has been dedicated to fine woodworking and marquetry since 2019, crafting artful wooden boxes with concealed locks. “When I began, I did not want to just create an object—I wanted to convey emotions through my craft. The first was for my wife, as a love letter,” he shares. José compares his boxes to the stages of a romantic relationship, unfolding over time. The initial impression—the polished exterior adorned with delicate marquetry—draws the viewer in, inviting them to explore the secret compartments within, mirroring the journey of truly getting to know someone. “People have always been drawn to the mystery of another,” José observes. “Love is about the experience of discovering what lies beneath the surface.” Looking ahead, he hopes to continue refining his craft, incorporating greater intricacy, more hidden elements, and deeper messages of love. “I want to touch more hearts,” says the artisan.

Interview

How did you learn to work with wood?: I started working with wood at the age of 10, helping out in a carpentry shop after school. Sweeping, sanding, and making toys sparked my passion—the touch and scent stayed with me. As an adult, I taught myself marquetry, experimenting in my spare time with leftover wood destined for the fire.
What is the symbolism of your boxes?: The boxes represent what is essential for a lasting love relationship: outer beauty (which captivates the eye), inner beauty (which touches the heart), the feeling they convey (which moves the soul), and the mystery that awakens in us the desire to know them (which touches the spirit). The secrets within the boxes symbolise the discovery of the one we love.
How do you choose the themes for your designs?: I choose them based on my emotions at the time. For example, Birds in the Moonlight reflects a longing for love and peace, while The Bond of Love symbolises resilience through hardships. Each design expresses a feeling, from protection to inner strength.
How does the secret locking system work, and what are the challenges?: The locks are magnetic, with a 9mm mechanism and a 1mm pin retraction. Everything is crafted manually with jeweller-like precision. The challenge lies in the fine details and ensuring flawless accuracy in every piece.

José Lourenço is an expert artisan he began his career in 2015