A DAY TRIP TO THE ALABASTER TRADITION IN VOLTERRA IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED FROM FLORENCE

Mining for alabaster has been a widespread practice throughout Tuscany for hundreds of years without exception. This long-lasting substance was used by the ancient Etruscans for the purpose of creation of sculptures that displayed its colors, natural veining, and reflective impact. We know that clay was employed to create bigger, more imposing masterpieces in addition to decorative goods like as vases, urns, and other objects of a similar kind. The artisans of Volterra, an old Etruscan city that is a fantastic destination to visit on a day trip from Florence, started working with alabaster once again just before the eighteenth century. This led to a rebirth in the craft that continued till the early 1900s. Some of this art was commercialized during the time of the Industrial Revolution; nevertheless, in true Tuscan fashion, many craftsmen have stayed committed to their trade and are pleased to maintain the original handcrafted skills that are part of their local culture. Employing the use of Alabaster This rock-like material is incredibly hard and contains minute holes in its surface. It also has a distinct appearance. The process of sculpting the material requires a significant amount of labor, and it may take many weeks to create even a modest bust. The vast majority of today’s craftsmen work in addition to their trade. This is mostly due to the fact that the process of making anything takes so much time that they would not be able to earn a living without it. There are a number of tiny artisan manufacturers in Volterra who are referred to as “alabastraio,” and many of them have referred to themselves as “ornatisti” (purely making ornamental objects, such as paperweights and dishes). The term “scultori” refers to artists who mostly work with human themes, while “animalisti” refers to those who create exquisite sculptures of animals and birds. When the artisan begins his job, he begins with a single block of material. Before this was used, it is possible that a saw or a mallet was used to crudely chop it down to the required size. In days gone by, there was a person who was known as a “squadratore.” This individual was committed to cutting the alabaster to the closest feasible size in order to avoid wasting any of the valuable material. In order to create vases, a lathe is used, and while the machine rotates, the piece is chiselled and fashioned using a variety of tools. In order to further chisel the piece, hooks made of iron or steel are used once the basic form has been attained. There is a possibility that other tools, such as rasps and mallets, may be necessary. Additionally, the “scuffina,” which is a tool designed for smoothing the final product, is nearly always required. The polishing process is the last step in the creation of alabaster, and it is very necessary if the material is to be produced with the characteristic brightness that it is famous for. In times past, women who were known as “lucidatrici” were paid to do this task; however, machines have since taken their place. Locations to Visit and Purchase Alabaster There are a number of beautiful lit alabaster workshops that can be found in the charming and distinctive city of Volterra. If you visit Volterra as part of a day trip from Florence, you are sure to be persuaded to buy at least one or two of these workshops. The painting is shown with the help of light, which also serves to highlight the brilliant polished surface and the veining detail that contributes to the overall beauty. Prices are never at an exorbitant level, which is a comfort for guests and quite a surprise when you take into consideration the amount of time and work that is often required. We hope that this has provided you with some ideas for somewhat different day trips that you may take from Florence. If you make your reservation with a local tour operator, your trip to Volterra will be even more memorable than it already was. They will be able to provide you with further information on the manufacturing process of this age-old art and provide you with information regarding the most reputable manufacturers from which to purchase it; nevertheless, you should not forget to bring bubble wrap for the trip back home! Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent company that provides tours and excursions around Italy that are completely remarkable. These tours and excursions include fantastic itineraries for day trips taking out from Florence. It doesn’t matter whether you want to ride a vintage Vespa, sample the world-famous Chianti wine, or get your hands dirty in the kitchen with fresh foods from the area; Mauro’s business guarantees exhilaration, adventure, and most importantly, fun. There is no need to seek any farther than WalkAbout Florence for your next vacation if you are eager to experience the enchantment of Italy with the assistance of some tour guides who are enthusiastic and very informed.

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