Photographer Roberto Bigano strikingly showcases the ornate designs of antique mechanisms and tools in a trio of books from publisher Cesati & Cesati. Published with both avid collectors and amateur admirers in mind, LOCKS – A Collection of Masterpieces, DOORKNOCKERS – A Collection of Iron Sculptures, and TOOLS – Beyond Hands Towards Beauty are the products of rigorous study released over the span of seven years starting in 2007. Cesati & Cesati specializes in research and publications relating to metal artifacts, and the images filling the pages of these volumes come from museums and private collections all over the world.
The exhibited pieces of iron, copper, brass, bronze, and silver date back as far as the 15th century and span hundreds of years of immaculate craftsmanship. Commissioned by nobility, the pieces are crafted to sumptuously merge form and function, and are often filigreed with images specific to particular occasions or house insignia. These books offer an incredibly detailed view of the finest specimens of the Western world's oldest crafts.
Cesati & Cesati website
Roberto Bigano website
via [Laughing Squid]
