The art of filigree was born during the Roman period and it was passed down through generations of skilled medieval jewelers, often following the work of the Byzantine goldsmiths of Constantinople, embellished crosses, reliquaries and the covers of Bibles. Later, the filigree became very popular in the French fashion world from the 60’s until today. And actually, countries such as India, Italy, and of course, Portugal, have been treasuring it. Deeply embedded in its history and culture, the Portuguese Brand, Boca do Lobo, is an honorable example of keeping this ancient technique alive through time.
Filigree Technique
Filigree is the most delicate technique used to work precious metals, usually of gold and silver. It is an age-old and detailed jewelry expression in which skilled artisans painstakingly solder tiny beads and twisted threads to create striking artistic motifs, suggesting often an elegant and intricate lace-like pattern.
The fine wire elements are soldered together to create small and rich accessories, usually jewelry pieces such as rings and necklaces, but in a bold, and certainly unexpected move, Boca do Lobo has been mastering the art turning it into upscale masterpieces.
In the old days there were around 120 artisans, and in less than ten years there are only 12 filigree artists in Portugal. There are a lot of items conceived by machines naming it as filigree, but then there are things that engines will never be able to do.
Filigree Mirror
Boca do Lobo strives to encourage sensational experiences by creating beautiful pieces which are passionately inspired and handcrafted in Portugal by a staff that loves what they do; experiences which pass on the feeling of exclusivity. The brand’s furniture is an exclusive emotional experience, a sense of belonging and a state of mind.
The Filigree Mirror resorts to one of the oldest jewelry making techniques known. Completely handcrafted, with each brass cord fitted with precision, the Filigree Mirror flourishes in a shape traditional to Portuguese culture and art. A true work of art the luxurious mirror plays tribute to Boca do Lobo’s core values heritage and craftsmanship.
Filigree Cricket Wall Lamp
As a tribute to the beloved cricket and its sacred symbology, Boca do Lobo perpetuates the craftsmanship tradition and creates a luxury handcrafted piece of art: a cricket figure entirely made of the most detailed silver filigree – an old Portuguese jewelry technique. The platter is made of polished brass with copper plating and transforms an amulet of prosperity into a brilliant luxury sconce. The big jump of the cricket as a symbol of success through creativity materializes Boca do Lobo’s tendency for breaking boundaries and thinking ahead in design.
Filigree Lucanus Wall Lamp
The Lucanus sconce brings a sophisticated symbiosis between a rare insect figure and the pure beauty of the silver filigree. The plate is made of polished brass and gold plated and completes this filigree masterpiece. The stag beetle inspires Boca do Lobo, that takes the insect’s metamorphosis’ idiosyncrasy as a metaphor to reflect the dynamic character of the brand itself, always challenging the perception of beauty through new design concepts and innovative techniques.
