Tracing Venice follows Zanellato/Bortotto’s research exhibited at Homo Faber 2022 (Venice) and is a homage to the mosaic floors of the Basilica di San Marco, which De Castelli translates into precious mosaics of different metals.

A work of art, a mosaic in metal. De Castelli consistently uses its applied research to push the boundaries of experimentation, uniting cutting-edge technology with fine craftsmanship for original, exclusive results. Perfected by the company through its tireless commitment to research and development, those inimitable processes and unique manual techniques have become the protagonists of a project born of the intersection of two paths: that of De Castelli and that of designers Giorgia Zanellato and Daniele Bortotto. Their shared vision has given rise to singular surfaces that surprise for their magical alchemy as they recount centuries of history.

“Transferring the beauty of the floor of Saint Mark’s Basilica to our materials. And evoking emotion, which is the highest value there is in the creation of a piece. We transposed the value of the marble, the unique nature of the manufacturing methods, and the chromatic juxtaposition of the stone mosaics to a different material, metal, which here has shown an unexpected ability to capture lightness, perspective and depth on its surface. Evoking the hues of the floor Saint Mark’s Basilica was extremely difficult because the colours of the marble pieces have different qualities. And recreating their deterioration over time and due to pollution, the result of alterations to the building andcenturies of erosion. In the tableau, we’ve recreated the idea of consumption and erosion in new materials, demonstrating that, even with metal, ageing and wear can become an element that increase its value.”, come racconta il Ceo Albino Celato.

A timeless work that embodies history and distant worlds. The building itself is 1,000 years old, and its beauty tells the tale of the city, its power and its conquests, and of the findings coming from afar that still reside here. Its floor is the messenger of an antique way of doing things that has been passed down over the centuries, now part of a new world that is fighting to save them.