Leonardo Davighi & Filippo Sanpaolesi

CōDICEDS

Jewellery maker

©Sanpaolesi

Motifs from floor to finger

Leonardo and Filippo make rings and cufflinks inspired by ancient art forms
They craft 'stones' either from metal or from synthetic clays
Their rings are fashioned with a mechanism to easily replace the stones

Leonardo Davighi and Filippo Sanpaolesi’s backgrounds could not be more different. One is a former designer who, at 40, turned to archaeology. The other worked as a communication manager for a big company, and became restless in his job. When they met and decided to start a business together, the choice fell on rings. Rings have been Leonardo’s passion for a long time, and Filippo became charmed, too. “I was fascinated by the big, eye-catching rings sold in Turkey, where I often travel to work on archaeological sites,” Leonardo explains. From this, they came up with the idea of creating modern jewellery pieces – rings and cufflinks – characterised by stones that can be replaced thanks to a patented mechanism of their own invention. Thus, the very same ring can assume different forms, according to the mood, occasion and look.

Interview

©Sanpaolesi

©Sanpaolesi

Which stones do you use?: We call them stones, but they are made either of metal or of synthetic clays and resins. Actually, we create them from scratch. The ones made of synthetic clays, for example, are the result of a procedure similar to the scagliola technique, revised and adapted to our needs.
Can you describe the making of your products in a nutshell?: After very detailed planning, we create a wax mould with a 3D printer, depicting the decor and texture with all its details and imperfections. Then the mould is filled either with bronze or silver for the base as well as for some of the stones. Finishing completes the process.
Where does your inspiration come from?: From archaeology and art history of the Mediterranean area. We reproduce old symbols, decors or techniques, thus retrieving ancient iconography that has often been forgotten. It is our way of spreading knowledge and awareness of our huge, marvellous cultural heritage.
Among the symbols you use, which are the most popular?: The bee is probably the most loved one, symbolising the individual working for the good of the hive. We launched it during the pandemic, when solidarity was strongly felt. Opus Sectile is popular, too. It reminds people of Escher’s paintings, but in fact it is a reproduction of the floor decorations of Ancient Rome!

Leonardo Davighi & Filippo Sanpaolesi are rising stars: they began their career in 2019