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Image by Annie Spratt

VENETIAN PLASTER: AN ANCIENT PRACTICE

Why we prefer to use Venetian Plaster

We chose to work with Venetian Plaster due to its durability and versatility, in addition to its Italian origins.

History

Limestone, the fundamental component of stucco, originates from the remains of marine life and shelled creatures that settled in oceanic environments, undergoing geological transformation due to pressure and heat. Over time, this material re-crystallized into limestone (calcium carbonate).

 

The history of stucco dates back approximately five thousand years, possibly originating in Mesopotamia or present-day Iran and Iraq. Archaeological evidence from Malta reveals its use as a binder and decorative element in structures dating back to 3000-2500 B.C., aiding in the construction of massive buildings on the island.

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SITE: https://firmolux.com/pages/plaster-history

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Care Guide

To care for any of our products that are made with Venetian Plaster, please follow the below guideline:

 

- All of our products with Venetian plaster are coated with a special wax that makes these pieces water resistant.

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- Cleaning: Recommended to use a very soft cloth to dust and to never use any harsh chemicals directly on to the plaster or cloth. 

 

Note: Waxes are not necessary for most interior applications but can be used to enhance the design look as well as adding extra protection. 

Inspiration

There are many reasons for us to use Venetian Plaster as this material has always inspired us. We try to avoid using any materials that fall too flat or dull and for us to do this we strive to achieve movement in all of the materials that we use. This is why you will see any metal we use, i.e.: Raw Steel with its natural patina to it, or why we use materials such as suede, velvet, or mohair on our sample furniture.

 

While working on our art mirrors we were heavily inspired by ancient Rome cities such as Pompeii, and this led to a better understanding of ash and stucco(a form of plaster) used in the construction of houses. The two most common elements in our products. Stucco is a form of before and ashes representing the state after the destruction.

Plaster Textures

Venetian Plaster

I

Grassello (Shiny)

The result with Grassello is a shiny finish and can be burnished to have a mirror-like result.

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III

Intonachino (Thick)

This product is a thick plaster and can be cultured to simulate the look of stucco or a heavy finish.

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Marmorino Veneziano (Matte)

This product leaves a matte-to-texture finish and can be cultured to simulate the look of stone or concrete.

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II

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