Metal’s processing: The Filigree

Filigree is an artistic technique in which thin metal threads, that are usually made of gold or silver, are intertwined to create an elegant effect of perforated structure.

It isn’t possible to know exactly when this process was born. In some pyramids it has been found Egyptian jewels with a very similar perforated manufacturing. Its wide diffusion throughout the world, however, happened only since 8th century BC. Once in Italy, Sardinia was one of the regions which most used and improved this style, making in that way the well-known and famous “Sardinian Filigree”.
Its existence on the island during the Phoenician period is confirmed thanks to many discoveries in archaeological sites; although the filigree’s big expansion was happened during the Renaissance, when it was used fundamentally as an ornament for the nobility’s clothes. But later, at late eighteenth century and early nineteenth century, it was extended even between lower classes, to decorate traditional or festive clothes in particular.

Pins, hooks, charms and talismans were principally produced but also rings and, of course, the most renowned “Bottone Sardo” or Sardinian Button. It symbolises prosperity and fertility, in fact, its shape is inspired by female breast. It was usually used to close cuffs or corsets in man and woman’s clothes as well. The button’s size changed according to the social class of who was wearing it; in the case of bride’s dress, for example, it depended of the groom’s economic possibilities.

The filigree’s high value was given of course, not only depending on the skill of metalsmith who had made it, but also on utilised materials.
Spain has its own tradition about filigree too, the most well-known is the Cordoban.

Even when we hear the filigree term in philately, is because this took its name from metals’ work. Doubtlessly, we have heard the same word in paper money’s context, where filigree is one of main characteristics which can help to recognise the fake banknotes from the real ones.

We hope to have satisfy your curiosity once again with this little history about filigree and we wait you on next blogs...

Of course, don’t forget to take a look to our website where you will find many examples of Sardinian Filigree.

www.elcoral.es