A: Who makes these types of objects today?
MF: Each pole requires different skills. Milanese artisans made the brass frame and strings. DeVecchi, the historic silverware factory, plated some of the elements in yellow gold, rose gold, silver and satin polish. The marbles were crafted in Bergamo. A company that manufactures Thonet chairs in Friuli made the wood rings.
A: A project that brings together many people.
MF: It involved a lot of research and working closely with experienced craftsmen to define the details. I had to show them the project using render, technical drawings and prototypes to explain exactly what I wanted. Their experience was precious in coming up with solutions.
A: What did you learn from this collaboration?
MF: A designer's task is to imagine projects, speculate, and open new roads, a craftsman finds the best way to make them happen. The two are complementary, each with something to add.