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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Lorenzo Picchi EDITORS: William French, Heather Donner GR APHIC & L AYOUT DESIGN: Narine Nalbandyan CONTRIBUTORS: William French, Christine De Melo, Federico Curcio, Cydney Ee, Heather Donner, Hannah Nagle, Samina Abedini. REGISTERED AT THE TRIBUNAL OF FLORENCE N. 6008, ON 9/12/2015. PUBLISHER: IAF PRINT: Rotostampa SRL, Florence

Main Exhibits ♦ Giovanni Dal Ponte Galleria dell’Accademia, Nov. 22 - Mar. 12 (2017) The first retrospective exhibition dedicated to Florentine artist Giovanni Dal Ponte (1385 - 1437) displays paintings from every phase of his career and the paintings that influenced his environment, such as those by Lorenzo Ghiberti, Lorenzo Monaco and Gherardo Stamina, Masolino and Beato Angelico and Paolo Uccello, Masaccio.

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The first monographic exhibit ever dedicated to painter and art critic Ardengo Soffici (1879-1964) showcases, alongside those of Soffici, works by Segantini, Cezanne, Renoir, Picasso, Degas, Medardo Rosso, De Chirico, Carrà, with the aim to explore one the most prolific interpretations of the origins of a kind of art, the contemporary one, characterized by revolutionizing “discoveries” and dramatic “Massacres.”

♦ The Revenge of Color Against Line. Venetian Drawings from the Ashmolean Museum and the Uffizi Gallery Curated by Marzia Faietti, Giorgio Marini and Catherine Whistler Uffizi, Department of Print and Drawings, Oct. 18 - Jan. 8 (2017)

♦ Discoveries and Massacres. Ardengo Soffici and Impressionism in Florence Curated by Vincenzo Farinella and Nadia Marchioni Uffizi, Sept. 26 - Jan. 8 (2017)

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WINTER EDITION www.florencenews.it The exhibit highlights the developments in the practice of drawing in Venice and in the Veneto region that occurred from the period of artists such as Tiziano, Veronese and Tintoretto to that of Canaletto when the figurative production became particularly influenced by the artistic workshops of Venice and other cities. The aim is to understand the ways of expression of Venetian drawing by confronting works from the Department of Print and Drawing of the Uffizi Gallery and the Ashmolean Museum of the Oxoford University.

The exhibit presents 80 of the over 200 clocks stored at Palazzo Pitti made in the period from the 18th to the 19th century, chosen for their artistic and scientific value.

♦ The Four Continents. Florentine Tapestry Cartoons by Giovanni Camillo Sagrestani Curated by Caterina Chiarelli and Daniele Rapino Palazzo Pitti, Galleria Palatina, Sept. 27 - Jan. 8 (2017)

♦ Real Time and Time of Reality. The Clocks at Palazzo Pitti from the XVIII to the XX Century Curated by Simonella Condemi and Enrico Colle Palazzo Pitti, Gallery of Modern Art, Sept. 13 - Jan. 8 (2017)

The exhibit showcases four magnificent tapestry cartoons from the third decade of the 18th century made by painter Giovanni Camillo Sagrestani. The cartoons represent the four continents on the base of the interpretation, often characterized by fantasy, of the cultural and historical identities of the world that was prevalent in the beginning of the 18th century.

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Botticelli Rooms Reopened

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The renovation has benefited from a generous donation from the Friends of Florence, a not-for-profit organisation, which raised the entire sum required both for the lighting and layout of the rooms and the restoration of paintings themselves in only six weeks. This act of generosity, as Simonetta Brandolini d’Adda, the foundation’s chair, pointed out, once again strengthens the historic tie

binding the interests of American culture to Florence’s historical heritage: “The renovation of the rooms devoted to the Early Renaissance, hosting the masterpieces of Pollaiolo, Botticelli and Hugo van der Goes, testifies to the intensity of our foundation’s interest in the Gallerie degli Uffizi and the works it houses,” said Brandolini D’Adda.

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Uffizi Revolution

Second floor to be dedicated to Renaissance masters

he rooms 9 and 15 of the Uffizi been immeasurably improved not Gallery, devoted to the paint- only in terms of comfort but also ings of the Early Renaissance, re- in terms of ease of interpretation opened last October after being of the works of art, because each renovated as part of the Nuovi painting is displayed in direct reUffizi project. The rooms, part of lation to those in its immediate an area that once housed the Medi- vicinity in terms of style, date or ci theatre designed by Bernardo subject matter.” Buontalenti, host masterpieces by “Not only do the ‘new’ walls tanPollaiolo, Hugo van der Goes, Ghir- gibly illustrate the network of cullandaio and paintings by Botticel- tural and stylistic relations that li, including his celebrated Spring existed between the Flemish and Florentine painters, a relationship and Birth of Venus. The new Botticelli rooms have with which scholars have long been designed primarily to meet been familiar, but they also lay the needs of visitors. Eike Schmidt, the correct emphasis on Botticelthe director of the Gallerie degli li’s later works, while the most faUffizi, said that “the paintings have mous ‘icons’, Spring and the Birth been arranged in the new rooms of Venus, are placed in proper perspective in the large rooms which in such a way as to respond to the flow of visitors before the master- are also intercommunicating in a pieces. Visitor experience has thus visual sense,” said Schmidt.

irector of the Uffizi Eike Schmidt announced last November that the museum will undergo a revolution next year as an entire floor, the second, will be dedicated to four Renaissance masters. The second floor of the museum, which was established in the late 16th century, will now display Michelangelo, Botticelli, Leonardo, and Raphael. Michelangelo and Botticelli are already on the second floor, while Leonardo and Raphael will ‘move up’ from the first. Schmidt has said that the second floor will have an independent entrance, which will allow spectators to view the four masters in a single visit. The Uffizi director has also announced an important piece of news for next year: the comeback, probably by Easter, of Leonardo’s ‘The Adoration of the Magi” after

a long period of restoration. There will be an entire show to celebrate its return to the Uffizi. More changes will take place in 2017, such as the one-size-fits-all tickets that will force visitors to follow a mandatory path. Along with these alterations, Schmidt is preparing a 800-square-metre exhibition space on the ground floor of the museum that will be entirely dedicated to temporary exhibits and will have an independent entrance and separate tickets. Schmidt also announced his intention to no longer open the museum to fashion shows such as Pitti Uomo. “Neither the rooms nor the hallways are suitable for fashion shows,” he said, adding that private events and dinners will be limited to the terrace and the city’s Magliabechiana Library.

he Giotto’s Bell Tower is the first famous Italian monument whose conditions and capacity of resistance will be checked-up after the recent earthquakes. Experts fear that, should another earthquake hit central Italy, Giotto’s Campanile may not withstand the impact. The monitoring of the tower began in November and will go on for one year. It will evaluate the construction, the staticity, the foundations, the possible degrade of the materials, possible fissures, the conditions of the surrounding ground and its seismic resistance. Due to the particularity of the construction, both static and dynamic tests will use the most advanced technologies. Standing adjacent to the Dome and the Baptistery of St. John, Giotto’s Tower is one of the showpieces of Florentine Gothic architecture.

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Real Time and the Time of Reality Exhibit showcases antique clocks

he Gallery of Modern Art at the Pitti Palace is presenting the exhibition Real Time and the Time of Reality. The exhibit, which aims to appreciate the clocks’ quality from a scientific and an art historical point of view, allows visitors to explore the shapes taken by time throughout

Mantel clock case: French workshop

mechanism: Pierre Du Chesne (c. 1650–1730)

c. 1675–90

ebony wood veneered and inlaid with tortoiseshell and gilded brass, chased and gilded copper, silk velvet; 66 × 40 × 21 cm. Florence, Gallerie degli Uffizi, Galleria Palatina e Appartamenti Reali, Toilette del Re

the dynasties of the Medici, the Lorraine and the Savoy, by displaying a selection of approximately 60 out of a total of 200 timepieces in the palace’s collection. Studied primarily as part of the huge legacy of furnishings and works of art in the palace, clocks played an important role in regulating the pace of life at court while at the same time being symbols of their owners’ prestige. The clockmaker’s art held a special fascination for the palace’s noble residents, who availed themselves of the best masters working in Italy and abroad inviting them to court to create their artistic masterpieces. This relationship is represented in the exhibition by a mantel clock created by English artist Ignatius Huggeford for Cosimo III in the early years of the 18th century. The timepieces record the styles of different eras and the changing tastes of the figures who occupied the throne of Grand Duchy of Tuscany. From the sober elegance of the religieuse decorated with the arms of the Medici - its face supported by a winged and bearded Allegory of Time - to the clock depicting the majestic figure of Aurora, each piece shows us how important it was to symbolise time in material form. The clock-face became the focal point of a composition which em-

Mantel clock case: French workshop

mechanism: France, c. 1810,

chased and gilded bronze; 58 × 67 × 21 cm., case 82 × 74 × 31 cm. Florence, Gallerie degli Uffizi, Galleria Palatina e Appartamenti Reali, Sala di Ercole

braced the ceaseless rotary movement of the hands; the primary sources of inspiration for the artisans who created these timepieces were the gods and goddesses of classical mythology, the allegorical personification of the passage of time, and animals with a metaphorical significance, as in the case of the clock resting on an elephant symbolising patience and longevity. “Appreciated also in Florence not

only as luxurious and exorbitantly expensive objets d’art, but also as wonderfully intricate automatisms, the clocks in the Medici and Lorraine collections project the image of a court in which mechanical and technical skill was no less valued or admired than the creative talent of the goldsmiths who set the movements in complex decorations, often adorned with allegories of Time. Indeed a clockmaker tasked with the maintenance of the precious objects’ delicate movements was a salaried member of the court’s permanent staff,” said Eike Schmidt, Director of the Gallerie degli Uffizi. Before the mechanical clock was perfected, scientists used tools that depended for their functioning on the observation of the stars and planets, the primary focal point associated with the natural passage of time and the alternation of the sun and moon. Real Time and the Time of Reality also hosts a broad range of scientific instruments – for instance, a reproduction of Galileo’s Jovilabe and a selection of sundials used to measure time before the birth of the clock – from other Florentine museums such as the Museo Galileo and the Museo Stibbert. Bridging the gap between 19th and 20th centuries is a collection of contemporary jewellery inspired by the theme of time, such as Fausto Maria Franchi’s ring Ore perdute or Virginia Tentindò’s necklace L’eterno ritorno, Surrealist in insipiration – all of them objects with an important conceptual significance that illustrate novel ways

of depicting time. This small digression introduces visitors to the final section of the exhibition, devoted to the 20th century and hosted in the Saloncino delle Statue, a part of the Galleria d’arte Moderna, where on display are pieces made in the 20th century. The exhibition runs until Jan. 8.

Mantel clock case: French workshop

mechanism: Jean François Béeckaert (c. 1720–83)

18th century

gilded bronze, brass, steel; 46.5 × 31 × 21 cm. Florence, Gallerie degli Uffizi, Museo della Moda e del Costume

Real Time and the Time of Reality Gallery of Modern Art, Palazzo Pitti Until Jan. 8

invitation galleria d’arte mentana Firenze Presents Values of Continuity Contemporary art exhibit

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angela audibert beltramo, annie gheri, audrey traini, bianca ViVarelli, claudio Francia, Felice spera, Felipe salsano, Francesca coli, Francesca marrai, ghenadie popic, gioVanni santarelli, luigi de gioVanni, marta bragagnini, massimo tiezzi, michela goretti, orazio iannetta, paola neri, rosario bellante, sergio benVenuti, silVia cappellini,Virginia Jones, Ximena carramiñana,ViVien schmidt, gianpaolo talani

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A Museum for Leonardo

land, China, the US, Brazil, Saudi Arabia and Finland. The exhibit also displays copies of six codices that reveal the inner workings of this great man’s mind. The Niccolai family has been widely praised for their ongoing devotion in realising the vast inheritance that Leonardo left to science.

Le Macchine di Leonardo da Vinci Via Cavour 21 www.macchinedileonardo.com

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Palazzo Strozzi Presents Ai Weiwei Exhibit runs until Jan. 22

Exhibit showcases working models of da Vinci’s designs

he exhibit presents working models of Leonardo’s designs that the Niccolai family has been reconstructing since 1995, when Carlo Niccolai dedicated himself to working full-time with the desire to realise Leonardo’s legacy. His passion founded the Niccolai Collection, the largest private collection of Leonardo models in the world, comprised of more than 300 working models created by himself and his sons, together with a team of artisans, engineers, historians and architects. The models have been displayed at more than 100 international exhibitions throughout Europe and as far afield as Australia, New Zea-

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alazzo Strozzi is presenting the exhibition Ai Weiwei. Libero from Sept. 23 to Jan. 22, 2017. A dissident artist with a leading voice, Ai Weiwei is known worldwide as much for his challenging contemporary art practice as for his political activism. Over the past twenty years, he has become a leading voice on the international art scene and China’s most famous living artist. Ai Weiwei will be the first to exhibit in all the spaces of the Palazzo Strozzi, as he will showcase works from the façade of the palace and the courtyard to the piano nobile and the Strozzina gallery, enriching the architecture of Palazzo Strozzi, a 15th century palace built

as a political statement. The exhibition includes monumental installations, sculptures, objects, videos and photographs ranging from his years living in New York – the 1980s and ’90s, when he discovered his ‘masters’ Andy Warhol and Marcel Duchamp – to the large iconic works from the early 2000s consisting of objects such as bicycles and stools, to his recent, controversial and engaged works such as the portraits of political dissidents built with Lego bricks and his projects on migration in the Mediterranean. Known for his political activism and meticulous artistic research, Ai Weiwei has become a symbol of resistance against censorship.

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The showcase at Palazzo Strozzi will offer one the opportunity to explore his creative genius and narrative, allowing critical insight into the artist’s ambiguous relations with China. The most important characteristcs of his art are the denounciation of the inconsistencies and gaps between the individual, and the community and a strong sense of rebellion against any form of authority.

Ai Weiwei. Libero Sept. 23- Jan. 22 Open every day 10 a.m. - 8 p.m Thursdays: 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. www.palazzostrozzi.org

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Galleria Gagliardi Hosts Alma Materia

Annalù | Hagakure studio 3

WILLIAM FRENCH

he San Gimignano based Gagliardi Contemporary Art Gallery is hosting the collective exhibition Alma Materia until Dec. 10. Curated by Alessandra Frosini and Stefano Gagliardi, the exhibit showcases 20 sculptures and installations from a group of internationally acclaimed artists includ-

Graziano Pompili | Terrae motus

ing Annalù, Giuseppe Bergomi, Giorgio Bevignani, Aron Demetz, Michelangelo Galliani, Graziano Pompili, Matteo Tenardi: artists that differ stylistically as some of them represent the human form figuratively, while others present abstractions concerned with the transformation of gallery space. According to curator Alessandra Frosini, the purpose of such diversity is to “cross styles and groups, classifications and labels,” and to bring the spectator back to the origins of artistic creation, to “the purest sources of artistic performance.” The exhibition is thus unified by its intent: first, to challenge the way in which one perceives and interacts with form and matter; second, to convey that “subtle balance” between “the natural and the artificial,” said Frosini. Alma Materia (meaning matter

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that nourishes, that generates life) intends to draw attention to the strengths that run through and strike matter, leading to the birth of the work of art. Starting from a reflection on the expressive qualities of different materials, revealed through the variable relationships between the artist’s interpretation and the adhesion to the physical substance of things, it is possible to learn about the complex metamorphoses that take place during an artistic creation. Particular attention is focused on presences and surfaces that tell of suspended atmospheres filled with suggestion: be they essential and lyrical, yelled or whispered, these works always far-removed from every technical and narrative complacency.

Giuseppe Bergomi | Ilaria with a Greek hat Galleria Gagliardi Via San Giovanni 57 San Gimignano

Il Ponte Presents Ranaldi Exhibit inaugurates Nov. 19

he contemporary art gallery Il Ponte is hosting an exhibition by Renato Ranaldi from Nov. 19. The showcase presents three sets of works from different periods. The first set is the Angolari works (1973-74), consisting of two canvases placed alongside each other to create a corner that acts as a theatre wing. The featured objects – real or represented – seem to upset and call into question the two dimensions of the pictorial medium, preferring to invent a non-conventional spatiality. On the ground floor, a selection of the 32 scioperíi drawings in black Indian ink on paper from the book by Ranaldi will be presented by Bruno Corà, Marco Meneguzzo and Angelika Stepken on Nov. 19, at the Museo di Antropologia ed Etnografia in Florence. These papers convey the artist’s

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carefree language. As Ranaldi himslef puts it, “...I opted for the biblical text of the blank page which can only be polluted by scioperíi – signs like flares, flashes of inspiration, on its edge...These scioperíi come about by frequenting the shady, risky areas of my brain, traps that I am incapable of avoiding. They are reverberations of resuscitated thoughts, they ask to resolve the enigmas that they themselves have produced and cannot unpick.” At the entrance will be a piece created for this exhibition called Contenzioso: two blank, equal-size canvases are linked and united by what the title of the work itself suggests is the object of a dispute [contenzioso]: a shapeless polychrome agglomeration of oil colors. The gallery Il Ponte is located on Via di Mezzo 42.

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Discoveries and Massacres

Ardengo Soffici and the avant-garde on display at the Uffizi WILLIAM FRENCH

he exhibition takes its inspiration from Discoveries and Massacres. Essays on Art, a memorable work published by Attilio Valecchi in 1919 that contains a selection of Soffici’s essays on art history, most of them published in the famous Florentine journal La Voce. The essay marked a fully-fledged

Pablo Picasso (Malaga 1881 – Mougins, Alpes-Maritimes 1973) Pipe, Glass, Bottle of Vieux Marc (and “Lacerba”), 1914

paper collage, charcoal, India ink, printer’s ink, graphite and gouache on canvas Venice, Peggy Guggenheim Collection

watershed between two eras: the European Avant-Garde, and the “Return to Order.” It was the donation by Ardengo Soffici’s heirs of a self-portrait to spark the idea of an exhibit showcasing pieces spanning from Soffici’s self-portraits, to paintings representing the most important subjects of his criticism such as Paul Cézanne, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Pablo Picasso, Giovanni Segantini, Edgar Degas, Medardo Rosso and Giorgio de Chirico. The works on display are accompanied by excerpts of Soffici’s writings to allow the spectator to actively participate in the showcase rather than floating passively from painting to painting. A painter, writer, polemicist and art critic, Soffici played a fundamental role in modernising and renewing Italian art. His essays and articles were published in the first and second decades of the 20th century, and the cultural events that he promoted and organised, such as the First Italian Exhibition of Impressionism held in Florence in 1910, had an integral role in bringing the avant-garde to Italy, and to Florence in particular, ferrying Italian figurative culture into the modern era. Soffici wrote the first ever comprehensive study of Cézanne published in Italy in 1904, asserting

the artist as a forefather of modernity rather than a mere Impressionist leader. After returning from France in 1910, Soffici arranged in Florence the first exhibition of impressionist painting in Italy. The showcase included works by Cézanne, Renoir, Monet, and Van Gogh. Soffici, who also wrote important essays on Picasso and Braque, ad-

Carlo Carrà (Quargnento, Alessandria 1881 – Milan 1966) Rhythms of Objects, 1911

oil on canvas Milan, Pinacoteca di Brera

Ardengo Soffici (Rignano sull’Arno, Florence 1879 – Vittoria Apuana, Forte dei Marmi, Lucca 1964) Self-portrait, 1949

oil on cardboard-backed canvas Florence, Gallerie degli Uffizi, Galleria delle Statue e delle Pitture

mitted after World War I to have become a “new man” seeking to reconstruct “the values and the vocabulary of figurative art,” while still evading the academic constraints of the Italian Renaissance. During the immediate World War One aftermath, he produced some of his masterworks including a sequence of still-lifes painted in 1919. Eike Schmidt, Director of the Gallerie degli Uffizi, said about this exhibit that “rather than simply producing a monographic reconstruction of the career of this artist, we have come at him from a more complex angle, reconstructing his controversial approach

and his intellectual commitment through the works of art on which he focused his attention, many of them the most significant (in both a positive and a negative sense) in a discourse that never beat about the bush but always went straight to the point, invariably adopting a strong and decisive tone.” The exhibit, on display at the Uffizi Gallery since Sept. 26, runs until Jan. 8.

Discoveries and Massacres Uffizi Gallery Until Jan. 8

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Dressing Up

Pitti Presents Uomo and Filati

HEATHER DONNER

itti Dance Off is the title-theme of the next edition of Pitti Uomo which will return for its 91st edition at the Fortezza da Basso from Jan. 10-13. The theme is to promote the expression of yourself, of your own body, the energy and pleasure of living as well as performing. The protagonist is dance in the myriad expressions used today, along with the eclectic freedom of personal styles shared by dance and contemporary fashion. Pitti interprets them with its usual ironic twist and with a finger tut,

in the best tradition of street dance and dance contests. With a layout project curated by Oliviero Baldini, it will introduce Pitti Dance Off, the new digital art project that accompanies the advertising campaign for the fairs. The 91st edition features 1,220 brands and collections, 540 of which are from abroad, with 210 new names and reentries. The 16 sections exploring men’s fashion include: Pitti Uomo, Make, Pop Up Stores, Eye Pop, Fashion At Work, HI Beauty, Futuro Maschile, Touch!, l’Altro Uomo, Born in the USA, Unconventional, Open, The Latest Fashion Buzz, I Play, Urban

Panorama and My Factory. Last year’s Pitti Uomo was another record-breaking edition of the leading international men’s fashion fair. A total of 36,000 visitors and over 24,800 buyers attended last winter’s fair, 8,800 of which (35.5% of the total) were from abroad. The main foreign markets represented were Germany, Japan, Spain, United Kingdom, Turkey, Netherlands, France, China, Switzerland, Belgium, United States, South Korea, Austria, Russia and Sweden. “Pitti Uomo celebrated its 90th edition in the best possible way” says Raffaello Napoleone, Pitti Immag-

ine’s CEO. “It was a sizzling event with lots of new ideas bubbling among the stands and many new menswear projects were launched onto the international scene from the Fortezza da Basso. The program of events was even more special than usual, with big names in fashion, emerging talents and totally experimental designers. We would like to send out a big thankyou to all this edition’s protagonists and partners from our exhibitors to the special guests, and also express our gratitude for the support provided through the Centro di Firenze per la Moda Italiana by the Ministry for Economic Development (MiSE – Ministero dello Sviluppo Economico) and by the Italian Trade Agency (Agenzia ICE), for the program dedicated to incoming services for members of the trade, the promotional initiatives and the organization of some of the special events”. Foreign attendance was boosted by very positive performances from United Kingdom (+18%), China (+14%), Germany (+5%) and Belgium (+7%). Japan (+3.5%) and the United States (+3%) also did very well. Russia (+8%) made a comforting recovery after a few difficult seasons, and there was an increase for Eastern Europe as a whole and the Baltic States, as well as excellent results for Portugal, Denmark, Mexico, Australia, South Africa, Singapore, Malaysia and Taiwan. There was, however, a significant dip in the figures for France, probably due to the current wave of strikes, the cancellation of numerous flights and UEFA Euro 2016.

Pitti Uomo 91 Jan. 10-13 2017

Contemporary Global Lifestyle

The world’s most important platform for men’s clothing and accessory collections and for launching new projects in men’s fashion. Exhibition times Everyday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Last day: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration times Registration: 8.30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Last day: 8.30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pre-registration: Jan. 9 2017 Visitors: from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Exhibitors: from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Pitti Filati 80

Jan. 25-27 2017 New fashion and lifestyle trends start here. The main international event for the knitting yarn industry, a research lab and an observatory on global lifestyle trends. Exhibition times 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. last day: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration times 8.30 a.m. to 6 p.m. last day: 8.30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pre-registration Jan. 24 2017 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

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The Main Events at Pitti Uomo “DUE O TRE COSE CHE SO DI CIRO”. The special event dedicated to Ciro Paone, the founder and soul of Kiton: “Due o tre cose che so di Ciro” [Two Or Three Things I Know About Ciro] is the event title Pitti Immagine dedicated to Ciro Paone. PAUL SMITH, the Pitti Immagine Special Guest: Smith is the Pitti Immagine Special Guest for January and is hosting a special fashion installation for the occasion. TIM COPPENS, this edition’s Menswear Guest Designer Coppens will be presenting his work by launching the European premiere of his FW 2017/18 menswear collection in Florence. GOLDEN GOOSE DELUXE BRAND, Special Project @ Pitti Uomo Golden Goose Deluxe Brand is celebrating ten years of their iconic sneaker with an installation-event at the Stazione Leopolda. Golden Goose Deluxe Brand is the Special Project @ Pitti Uomo. COTTWEILER For REEBOK, the Designer Project of Pitti Uomo 91 The menswear label designed by Ben Cottrell and Matthew Dainty is presenting the pre-

miere of its collaboration with REEBOK. THE PITTI ITALICS: Carlo Volpi, Lucio Vanotti, Sansovino 6 Pitti Italics presents Carlo Volpi and Lucio Vanotti, and Sansovino 6 will be showcasing their menswear line with a performance event. SULVAM, one of the new talents on the Japanese scene: The Japanese brand Teppei Fujita, backed by a lengthy collaboration with the Yohji Yamamoto maison, will debut at the Stazione Leopolda with a fashion show. The fashion shows of BMUET(TE) by Byungmun Seo and ORDINARY PEOPLE Two catwalk shows promoting the South Korea’s talented young designers. On the catwalk are the collections of BMUET(TE) by Byungmun Seo and Ordinary People.

At the Fortezza da Basso: THE PARTICIPATION OF BIG INTERNATIONAL BRANDS: Brands such as Z Zenga and Tommy Hilfiger have chosen Pitti Uomo for the worldwide launch of their lifestyle projects. Paul Smith will also be

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present with the PS by Paul Smith collection and a dedicated layout concept. Some of this edition’s other HIGHLIGHTS: new events, special projects and returns The lifestyle project that celebrates the tradition of luxury tailoring of Larusmiani and the new collaboration with Lorenzi, historic firm of exquisite accessories. HI BEAUTY, a new area featuring exclusive fragrances and cosmetic specialties: HI BEAUTY will propose a selection of maisons and international brands with their personal and ambient fragrances, research into cosmetic specialties, body care and male grooming products. MAKE, THE NEW INTERNATIONAL MAKERS MAKE will showcase a new generation of craftspeople from around the world with their sophisticated piece in step with modern times. THE POP UP STORES, lifestyles and transversal offers The POP UP STORES are dedicated to men’s lifestyle products such as eyewear, shoes, bags and travel accessories in addition to high design products. THE LATEST FASHION BUZZ, powered by MINI THE LATEST FASHION BUZZ

showcases the collections of a selection of ready-to-wear and accessory designers working on a new concept of modernity in menswear: “Bold Meets Genderless”. OPEN, a focus on fashion that goes beyond gender OPEN offers a selection of experimental collections that overcome the menswear/ womenswear distinction. It features experimental collections designed for both men and women to wear with nonchalance. UNCONVENTIONAL, luxury underground styles in the limelight UNCONVENTIONAL presents luxury underground styles with exclusive collections designed for a contemporary gender-neutral wardrobe. I PLAY, the new definition of sportswear I PLAY is a crossover style that has pushed the envelope in defining sportswear, creatively infusing urban life with authentic high-tech sportswear BORN IN THE USA by Liberty Fairs: the best of Made in the USA comes to Florence BORN IN THE USA by Liberty Fairs will showcase a carefully vetted mix & match ranging from the traditional to the sporty. FUTURO MASCHILE, the new

formal wear concept lab Futuro Maschile has always been one of Pitti Uomo’s most prestigious sections given its recognized role as a manifesto of the changes in classic-contemporary menswear. TOUCH!, a platform for the ultimate in cutting edge style Touch! is devoted to the eclectic spirit of the contemporary man’s wardrobe with an artistic and international approach to the most visionary and cutting-edge styles. L’ALTRO UOMO, the land of avant-garde style L’Altro Uomo defines what lies at the avant-garde of style and will showcase clothing and accessory collections that reflect creativity capable of anticipating changes in taste. THE MAIN PAVILION, an incubator of lifestyle trends The Main Pavilion interprets a man’s wardrobe as refined, composite and high end, and features contemporary classic sartorial collections along with major new classic names and the fine quality of their pieces. EYE POP, the line between fashion and eyewear Eye Pop explores the connection between eyewear and fashion in terms of quality and design. It is intended not only for the best concept stores, but also companies seeking new creative synergies.

THE ITALIAN FASHION OUTLETS ON VIA DEI NERI Via dei Neri 86-88/r

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ModaPrima Returns

lorence is having a special fashion weekend this fall as the 81st edition of international fair ModaPrima returns to Stazione Leopolda Nov. 20–22. Hosted by Pitti Immagine, ModaPrima presents ready-towear fashion trends, accessories and previews of next season’s collections by Italian manufacturers and a few selected international brands. Participants from over 50 countries – led by Japan, which has represented the largest body of buyers

since the fair’s inception – will attend the showcase. The last edition of the show, in May, was attended by over 1.600 buyers, of which less than 800 came from over 50 countries. ModaPrima is one of the fashion events that again gives Florence a primary role in the international world of fashion. “The quality ready-to-wear products realized by the Italian production districts are also going through a complex, relatively restrained phase with regard to the

domestic market as well as the international scenario, but that the focus on internationality is definitely the direction in which we should be investing,” said Agostino Poletto, deputy general manager of Pitti Immagine, who also remarked that “the quality of the international visitors and the great feedback from the almost 60 exhibiting companies which, over the three days of the fair, presented around 120 new product lines,” pointing out how “the important collaboration launched several seasons ago with the ICE - Italian Trade Agency was again a success, bringing to the fair a delegation of qualified buyers from South Korea and the United States who greatly appreciated the collections and new ideas proposed by our exhibitors and, in general, the exhibitive quality of the fair”. “For future editions we will continue to focus on international promotion, because we consider this to be a fundamental element for the fair and for the entire sector it represents”, concluded Poletto. The event prepares for the biggest fashion fair by Pitti Immagine, Pitti Uomo, taking place next January.

ModaPrima 81 Fashion & accessories collections for a/w 2017/2018. Entry Hours 9.30 am - 6.30 pm Last day 9.30 am - 5.00 pm

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4 Tips on how to Dress Italian I

f blending in with the locals instead of sticking out like a tourist is your goal, then following these tips should help. Even so, remember that a large camera dangling around your neck and giant map in your hand may give away your true identity. Here are four tips about how to dress like an Italian for both men and women.

1) Wear neutrals. The first thing every fashion expert points out is color scheme. Italians can always be spotted wearing neutrals, black being their basic go-to. This means forgoing your bright, floral dresses and opting for beige, white, or black pieces. If you want to add a hint of color, choose an accent piece, such as a red bag or colorful scarf. 2) Exchange comfort for class. Americans are known for a sporty and casual style, often choosing outfits based first on comfort. Italians, on the other hand, select outfits to accentuate their bodies, wearing tighter, more form-fitting pieces. For you men out there, this means switching those tee-shirts and cargo shorts for a good pair of jeans, a tailored shirt and a suit jacket. Women should consider

getting rid of those loose cotton tank tops, dresses and jean shorts and choosing instead an elegant skirt, a form-fitting top and a pair of heels. And the number one piece of advice? Toss out those flip-flops. 3) For your basics, invest in luxury pieces. This doesn’t mean purchasing a new designer wardrobe to achieve that coveted Italian style. Instead, focus on investing in the basics. The top two recommended pieces to splurge on are shoes and bags. Take a stroll down Via Tornabuoni to find stores that carry quality leather pieces to fill your closet. One warning though: you may empty your bank account. 4) Mix casual with formal. Americans are often seen in one of two extremes, either all-out formal with a suit and tie, or utterly bumming-out in jeans and T-shirt. Italians, however, are known to mix casual and formal to give their style a particular, that Italian ‘unique’ flair. Try starting off with a more casual outfit, then mixing in a few formal pieces, such as adding a blazer to your regular shirt and jeans. Your look will instantly become casually chic.

Three generations of women span the most exciting period of Medici history....

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Open: Mon–Sat: 10 a.m.–7:30 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Via Guicciardini, 2/r 055 23 98 450 www.pinart.it

A Historical Novel by C. De Melo Available on Amazon www.cdemelo.com

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Understanding the Roots of Fashion from the Renaissance COSTANZA MENCHI

n the early 1930s, Italian writer Gianna Manzini noted that the renowned Bronzino’s portrait of Eleanor of Toledo with her son, Don Garzia, acts as “a program, a prophecy,” the document of an epoch. It is, in fact, in the Renaissance that we can find the first manifestation of a “discourse on dress” and a ‘rhetoric’ of ‘la bella figura’ (literally: beautiful figure, meaning: giving a good impression). Thus, the Renaissance is the key moment in history for understanding the roots of Italian fashion. Fashion in the Renaissance became scientia habitus and a political and a state affair via the Sumptuary Laws. In the 16th century, numerous authors, such as Baldassar Castiglione and Cesare Vecellio, expressed an existing concern for appearance. It was in this period that the body became a vital component of identity as individuals, beginning with the members of the Medici family, began to see themselves as the ‘agents’ of their own fate. In the Renaissance, the act of “fashioning” had connotations different from modern ones. Clothes were seen as to transform the wearer, while dressing in particular, elegant clothes gave people a form.

In the mid-16th century, Cosimo de’ Medici became a duke and his wife Eleanora became a duchess by putting on the robes of state. From Eleanor’s wedding dress of 1539 to her burial dress of 1562, the Spanish-born duchess wore ceremonial to advertise both the Florentine silk industry and Duke Cosimo’s loyalty to the Spanish Emperor Charles V. Here we have identified some of the early meanings of modern fashion: dressing becomes, in this period, a way of advertising, of communicating an identity. Our primary evidence for Cosimo and Eleanor’s newly achieved ducal status is portraiture. Florentine painter Agnolo Bronzino under-

stood the importance of dress in crafting Eleanor’s public persona, and for this reason he made the virtuoso depiction of clothing and jewels (some of them attributed to Cellini) central to his four portraits of her in ceremonial dress. In these portraits, Bronzino depicts Eleanor as an icon of Spanish nobility and, together with her two eldest sons, as a symbol of a fecundity at the base of the Medicean dynastic ambitions. Thus, just as Eleonora’s public appearances in lavish dress were carefully staged, Bronzino’s images of her in this clothing were part of Duke Cosimo’s political culture, in which he presents his duchess as he wished her to be seen. Eleanor, Cosimo and the members of the Medici family represented in those portraits were not just showing off their refined style and taste, but the richness of the city of Florence. Through their wardrobe, they adopted different ways and tricks by means of which ideas, ideology and power could be conveyed through appearance. Florentine heirs of that tradition are still recognized worldwide for the superb “Made in Italy” fashion, textiles, leather goods, jewels and accessories, which still let people wearing them make aa good impression during public and private occasions.

The ‘Supermodels’ of the Past T

hrough Renaissance portraits of women it is possible to understand how modern fashion began. It was during this period, in fact, that for the first time in art history, women became the object of a somewhat obsessive attention to the details of beauty. Artists began focusing intently on women’s faces, hair and clothes, and thus female portraiture took on another expressive element, beyond representing personality and social status. Simonetta Cattaneo can be considered the first “supermodel” in history, as Botticelli used her as a muse and inspiration for his paintings. Born in Genoa, she married Mario Vespucci, cousin of Amerigo Vespucci who baptized America. In 1475 she was nominated “Queen of Beauty” at the popular chivalrous tournament known as La Giostra, which that year was won by Giuliano de’ Medici, brother of Lorenzo the Magnificent. Giuliano and Simonetta embarked on a love story which came to a tragic end in 1476. She was only 22 when she died of tuberculosis. Giuliano died a few years later in the Pazzi Conspiracy. Simonetta’s face is believed to appear in The Birth of Venus and the Madonna of the Magnificat at the Uffizi. Hers and Giuliano’s are believed to be the faces in Botticelli’s Primavera, or

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Sandro Botticelli, The Birth of Venus (fragment)

Allegory of Spring.Another model was Lucrezia Panciatichi. In Bronzino’s portrait she appears with a “complicated” hairstyle, blue eyes and a melancholic expression; she wears a sumptuous red velvet dress and a corset trimmed with a belt made of precious stones. One of her two necklaces bears the inscription “Amour dure sans fin,” an allusion to the love of God, whilst her right hand holds a prayer book. The sleeves of the dress are big and detachable, as it was common in that period.

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Discover Gucci Through His Museum

BROOKE FEICHTL

he Gucci Museum portrays the brand’s history through a variety of products ranging from travel and homeware to fashion and art. The museum, which opened in 2011 to celebrate Gucci’s 90th birthday, is 1,715 square meters in size and spans three floors of the the Palazzo della Mercanzia near Piazza della Signoria. The location was chosen because it was once an administrative building that promoted the Florentine

craft guilds of wool, silk and cloth importers. The exhibit begins with the story of the brand’s founder Guccio Gucci, who worked as a liftboy in London’s Savoy Hotel. When he returned to Florence, Gucci was inspired by upper-class British travelers and began crafting fine travelware. The initial exhibits show the emphasisthat Gucci placed on travel, from diverse suitcases to the Gucci car that featured a monogrammed steering wheel, upholstery and tires. The next floor exhibits Gucci’s Flora motif. The

design was created when Rodolfo Gucci commissioned illustrator Vittorio Accornero to create an original floral pattern for a scarf to be presented to Princess Grace of Monaco when she visited the Gucci Milan store in 1966. Variations of the pattern feature flowers, insects and berries for all seasons and have been printed on many products, such as dresses, purses and porcelain. The collection also displays other Gucci trademarks such as the horse bit that represented the British upper class, and Gucci’s bamboo purse

handle. Gucci’s bamboo handle was invented during the supply shortages of World War II when bamboo canes were still available for purchase. The handles are now made from a rare bamboo root and take more than 13 hours to fashion. On display are the famous Gucci evening gowns such as the ones worn on the red carpet by Blake Lively, Cameron Diaz and Salma Hayek Pinault. The museum also features a café and the Icon store, where visitors can purchase oneof-a-kind items.

Gucci Museum Piazza della Signoria, 10 Open every day Museum: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. (Friday 10 a.m.-11 p.m.) Icon Store: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. (Friday 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.) Bookstore and Gift Shop: 10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. (Friday 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.) Café and Restaurant: 10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. (Friday 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.) Admission is €7 (Friday from 8 p.m. is €5)

Ristorante Natalino since 1880

Borgo degli Albizi 17/r 055 289404 ristnatalino@hotmail.it

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Chasing Design

Florence News 17

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Tailoring Since 1818

The story of an American businessman in Florence RHETT STENSRUDE MATT HARTY

ack in his early youth, Warren Knight, a born-and-raised New Yorker, designed a series of items to adorn his childhood bedroom. Since then, his passion for design has led him to Italy, where he has spent years learning true artistry from some of the most outstanding craftsmen in wood, textiles, glass, ceramics, bronze and stone. This undaunted passion and education culminated in the first complete collection of the furniture and lifestyle brand, Blu Knight. Located by Ponte Santa Trinita, his headquarters for interior design showcases elegant furniture, antiques, accents and lighting, all of which are designed by the man himself. Knight’s classical, timeless design takes its inspiration from both Western and Eastern styles, from eighteenth-century England to the Ming dynasty, from the Italian baroque to the Han dynasty. These items are exclusively handcrafted and use only the highest quality of materials for production.

First of all, could you tell me about your design process?

The story of Sartoria Vanni

The designs for all of these products come from my imagination. I sketch them out at first and then forward them to my manufacturers, who typically send them back to me for clarification. After I refine and shape my ideas, they are put into production. So did you design everything in here? Yes, I did. Do your products always turn out how you had in mind? There’s often a discrepancy between the thing in my imagination and its manifestation in reality. Nevertheless, by striving for perfection, I seek to bridge that gap. We work with a margin of error of about 10%. So you moved here from New York to start a business, why? Life, I believe, is about quality. For me the quality of life is much better here in Italy. What differences and similarities are there between American and Italian business? There are many differences. First of all, people have a different cultural mentality about work, which isn’t a negative aspect of business

T Blue Knight founder and owner Warren interviewed by two of our interns

here, but which certainly required some adjustment from me. Second, the laws are different: contracts are different, hiring employees is different, and working with money, manufacturing, property, taxes, etc. is different. As for similarities, aside from the bare essentials, none come to mind at the moment.

able here than it would be in New York. I also disliked the pace of life in New York; it was too ‘go-go-go.’ In New York you work all day, fall asleep at 10pm and then wake up to repeat.

What difficulties did you encounter when you started working in Italy? Initially, I had difficulties finding an accountant and a lawyer; it took me a while to find the right person, which was very important to me, but now I have a trustworthy and reliable team.

What else do you design aside from interior decoration? Currently, we are working on expanding our lifestyle selection, so that our brand expands far past furniture and fills one’s life at home with comfort, elegance and beauty. Beauty is highly significant to me, both personally and professionally. And as I said, life is about quality, which is why I’m so committed to my work.

What do you like about working in Italy? The freedom. It’s far more afford-

Life is about quality, and - it’s not hard to believe - Warren found it here, in Florence.

he story of Sartoria Vanni dates all the way back to 1818, when a small tailor shop opened in the heart of Florence and quickly earned a solid reputation as the destination for premium bespoke tailoring. Since then, all of their garments have been made using the most prestigious fabrics: from exceptional cashmere and merino wools signed Loro Piana, to the finest cottons and linens from Thomas Mason. Today, Sartoria Vanni brings the authenticity of Italian craftsmanship to a worldwide audience. The sartoria offer a personal tailor service, allowing their international clientele to have a dedicated Italian tailor always at their service. If you happen to visit the shop to start your ‘tailored journey’, thanks to a visiting tailor service in Europe and the US , you will have your own private Italian tailor.

Via dei Fossi 51/r – Firenze www.sartoriavanni.com

WOMEN'S CLOTHING FASHION

Via Maggio 4r/6r • 055 2398891 Borgo San Frediano 1r • 055 295129 Borgo La Croce 3c • 055 2478200 www.vincentcroce.it

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Two Authentic Florentine Hands allets, jewelry, fragrance, handmade by a real Florentine craftsman, Marco Cantini. Marco was born and raised in Piazza della Passera, in the most ‘authentic’ neighborhood of Florence, Santo Spirito, where you can still find pure Florentines today, which seems to be an increasing rarity in this city. Since childhood, his life has been devoted to his strong passion for work. In these early years, Marco’s daily life consisted of school in the morning and working at a boutique with a craftsman in the afternoon, polishing frames and restoring small objects. He later became the apprentice of a Florentine goldsmith. “I could ‘smell’ the beauty of this noble and ancient art,” Marco says, recalling this time, “but couldn’t accede to it until I was 20, when my mentor started teaching me the medieval techniques of his job. My adventure begins here. I bought my first workbench and started creating.” But still, Marco’s curiosity was not satisfied. “I needed to know, to see, to explore. Being Florentine and a goldsmith has been really helpful in my tours and adventures. In London I worked for David Morris on Bond

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Carla Sorrenti’s Style

Meet Marco Cantini

WINTER EDITION

Street. It’s there that I was introduced to the world of international fine jewelry,” says Marco. “I understood that, thanks to what I learned in my early ages, I could travel and work all over the world. And that’s what I did. I travelled to Brazil, Mexico, New York and connected my craftsmanship techniques and to the new ones I learned abroad.” Despite these travels, Florence has always been Marco’s real home. And it’s here that, back in the 90’s, he opened his first shop, with more on the way.

Marco Cantini

Via del Castello D’Altafronte, 28/r, www.marcocantini.com

old and imperious creations, elegant baroque bags designed to be tiny and perfect for both day and night—this is the world of the emerging, Calabrian-born stylist currently in Florence, Carla Sorrenti. After several partnerships with famous accessories maisons, Carla made her debut with the Venusia bags. Personalization and limited edition are the key elements of the Venusia bag’s style with its new, comfortable opening like a treasure chest, its safe external slot for smartphones and its capability to hold a little bottle of water along with other details for any woman needs. The new spring/summer collection is the modern interpretation of a bag inspired by Venus, the roman goddess of beauty and love, and by the old noble emblem of Carla Sorrenti’s family. To discover Carla Sorrenti’s world, visit her website carlasorrenti.it.

A Shuttle to the Barberino Designer Outlet Located in the green heart of Tuscany, just 30 minutes from Florence, Barberino Designer Outlet is the shopping destination where you can browse items from 200 of the most luxurious Designer fashion Brands, including Dolce & Gabbana, Michael Kors, Hugo Boss, Polo Ralph Lauren, Nike, Patrizia Pepe and many more at 30-70% less all year round. You can reach Barberino Designer Outlet with a comfortable shuttle bus service from Florence train station, 8 times a day. Tickets can be purchased online or directly on the bus. Price is €13 per person, round trip. Traveling with the shuttle bus, you will also be entitled to get the exclusive FASHION PASSPORT, the discount card which will grant you an additional 10% reduction on the Outlet price. Shuttle bus to Barberino Designer Outlet departs from Florence, Piazza Stazione 44 (in front of the Zoppini store) at: 9.30 a.m. –11.30 a.m. –2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Return to Florence at: 1.00 p.m. – 3.00 p.m. – 6.00 p.m. – 8.00p.m. For more information visit www.mcarthurglen.it/barberino

LIVE MUSIC AND SPORT Via Faenza 27/r • 055 274 1571

TAX FREE ON YOUR FAVORITE BRANDS

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Leather and Suitcases for over 200 Years A historical landmark of quality and craftsmanship

t all began shortly after Napoleon was exiled to the island of Elba after his military campaigns in Europe. In 1815 the Gazzarrini store opened in Florence at the same location as today, on Via Porta Rossa. At that time the store’s address was number 13, which corresponds to today’s 71–73/r. The shop initially produced saddles and suitcases. The first landmark change came in 1911 when Giuseppe Gazzarrini, an employee of the shop, bought the firm and decided to specialize in suitcases. In the 1920s the firm began to exhibit at national and international trade fairs, where it was appreciated for the quality of its products. One of the Gazzarrini family’s most

difficult moments came in 1966, when Florence’s famous flood deeply damaged the shop. After the flood, the Gazzarrini came up with their most innovative idea. They were the first to introduce “stiff suitcases” to Florence, which at the time just was an American novelty. Today you can find countless leather goods at the shop in Via Porta Rossa, as well as travel accessories and quality brands, including Samsonite, Tumi, and Longchamp, of which Gazzarrini is an exclusive dealer. Valigeria Gazzarrini Via Porta Rossa, 71/r valigeriagazzarrini.com

Florence News 19

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Geronico Embraces Third Generation W

The history of a tradition

hen in 1919, shortly after the end of WWI, Pietro Geronico came to Florence from the lakes district of northern Italy, he was only a young boy looking to make a living. Born in 1899 in a small city not far from the Lake Maggiore where most people employed themselves in repairing umbrellas, he came to Florence looking for fortune. Here, repairing umbrellas was his first job. Soon after, he was hired by a shop in Via Calzaiuoli that sold bags and umbrellas, of which in the turn of a few months he became the manager. It was the first step towards a brilliant career. Pietro decided to open his own shop, in the same street as the one he was working for. He named it with his surname: Geronico. This was in 1929, just ten years after his move to Florence. In the early stages of the Geronico store, the core business was umbrellas. Alongside umbrellas, Geronico sold travel bags and handbags of all sorts, as well as leather and fur products, which was a common practice at that time. It was only between the late 1950s and the early 60s, a time of vast and sudden expansion in Italian fashion, that the shop changed its profile and became international. To adjust to the demands of a rapidly changing market, it reduced its sales to leather goods, including travel and work

bags, evening and formal handbags, and a wide assortment of high-quality items made exclusively in Italy. During this time, Florence was known as the “district of leather,” and thanks to stylists such as Ferragamo and Gucci became the capital of Italian fashion, until in the 1970s it was replaced by Milan. Today Geronico, which recently received the award of “historical shop” by the Comune di Firenze, is run by Marina, third generation member of the Geronico family. Marina has renewed the shop, turning it into an elegant contemporary boutique, while at the same time preserving its classical essence. Notice the handmade umbrellas at the entrance to the shop, remnants of Geronico’s past.

Fashion Online S

hoppingscanner is a search engine for clothes and accessories for women, men and children, cosmetics and house decor. Easy to manage, it uses tools and filters such as price range, discount percentage, color, size or name of the product, brand, keyword. One can also navigate within the categories and find a series of tips and outfits that are in the trend section. Shoppingscanner has currently four versions: Italian (.it), French (.fr), English (.uk) and American (.com) and nearly 1,000,000 products per site from over 60 of the best Italian, European and American stores. The website gets about 400,000 visitors per month. “We’ve created this search engine that can browse the best online stores and filter products according to brand, price range, discount, color and size. We want shopping online to be easier for everyone. We’re working hard to perfect it. Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening,” say Laura Cappelletti and Alessandra Massaini , co-founder s of the platform.

www.shoppingscanner.it/com/fr/uk

ALPACA SHOP

ORGANIC COTTON ITEMS

Florentine New Year’s Eve Welcome drink *** Big appetizer for New Year’s Eve with fantasies of hot croutons, mixed of typical cold cuts, coccoli and creamy cheese *** Florentine Steak (500 gr), Roasted potatoes, Sauteed vegetables *** Eve Dessert *** La Cantina Red Wine Chianti DOCG Tuscan White Wine Mineral Water Coffee Sparkling Wine (1 bottle/2 people) Price €65,00 p.p. Via Ghibellina 178/r ( near Santa Croce )• 055 2645411 Open every day in December

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Take Home Artisan Tradition

From the Florentine Trecentesco to Modern Fashion The story of designer Piero Puliti

he Florentine Trecentesco, an antique technique for gold leaf work on furniture pieces, frames and various accessories, inspired Piero Puliti, a designer specialized in shirts and ties, to express his sensibility for the unusual composition of materials and colors. After growing up in San Frediano, one of the most popular neighborhoods in Florence, Piero’s love for everything fashion-related drove him to carve out a place for himself in this field, creating custom phenomena for the Florentine fashion boutiques

that in the 70’s were the leaders in the field. Later, Piero concentrated on the creation of prêt-a-porter fashion for both men and women. This particular field constantly needs new ideas, as products immediately undergo market testing. Therefore, it constitutes the best training ground for a creative mind. Piero’s dream, however, was still that of having a space of his own in the heart of Florence. All he wanted was a shop where he could express his creations, taste and style freely. In 1994

‘Son of the Heart’: Benheart HANNAH NAGLE

verything began after a heart transplant, when he woke up with a new perspective on life and realized that he now had the best chance to express his emotions through his hands. That’s why Benheart is tantamount to ‘son of the heart,’ a heart that is the distinctive look imprinted on all his leather goods: shoes, bags, jackets, and belts.

Six years ago, he opened his first store in Florence. Currently, there are six stores, five of which are in Italy and one of which is in Tokyo. Soon there will be seven boutiques, as a new one is about to open in San Francisco, CA at the beginning of the next year. Along with his heart, Ishan takes inspiration from the American way of living, which he describes as vivacious, happy, full of hopes and fueled by dreams. Happiness and dreams are the main ingredients of this new

this dream came true and he opened a shop on Via Del Corso, the first in Florence to offer only shirts and ties with a vast selection of fabrics. Cottons come from the best mills in Italy and the ties, realized by major silk factories in the northern Italian city of Como, are designed by Piero exclusively for his shop. As he had always dreamt. Via Del Corso 51/r 055 282662 www.pieropuliti.it

fashion based primarily on quality, on the quality of emotions that come from the heart. “We look at the quality first: quality is our brand identity. Then, of course, all our products have to fit and be beautiful when you wear them,” Ben told us. The clothing and accessories are entirely crafted by hand, the treatment of which is derived from the traditions of Ben’s native town. Customized pieces are also available if you visit one of their locations in Florence. Via della Vigna Nuova, 97/r Via dei Cimatori 25/r www.benheart.it

tepping into Paolo Fattori’s elegant leather workshop is a surprising experience: light and airy with clean lines and a minimalist feel, it’s where the modern world meets ancient Florentine tradition. Only the lingering scent of leather and the sight of Paolo busily working at an island bench indicates that this is, in fact, a bottega (workshop) producing finely crafted leather bags, backpacs, belts and various articles all made by the hands of the man himself. Rolls of jewel-colored leather line the walls, numbered and certified by Tuscan company Consorzio Vera Pelle Italiana Conciata al Vegetale, which practises an artisan method of vegetable-dyed leather that has its origins in the Renaissance. Although Paolo has only been working in leather full-time for six years, he’s

already made a name for himself both in Florence and as far afield as Japan. However, manual dexterity runs in Paolo’s veins; his father and grandfather worked in wood and iron, and he credits them with his ability. “In Tuscany, manual skill is widespread and forms part of the genetic heritage of the region,” he says. Indeed, Paolo’s workshop is named after the two principal instruments of the trade: the furò and punteruolo. Drop by and watch the craftsman at work on Via del Giglio, 29/r, tucked in between San Lorenzo and SMN train station.

Furò e Punteruolo Via del Giglio, 29/r

In Florence there is a new pharmacy

Cavour LIFESTYLE SALON & SPA VIA DE’ NERI 53-55/R 055 23 98 553

Come to visit us. You will find a wide range of skincare products dedicated to you.

CONCEPT SALON WITHOUT APPOINTMENT VIA DE’ NERI 49/R 055 28 28 41

Ask your pharmacist for advice.

CONCEPT SALON VIA DEI BENCI 5/R 055 21 92 27 www.salonecontrasto.it

NEW GYM NEAR SANTA MARIA NOVELLA Brand new gym in the heart of Florence is now open. • Fully outfitted with the latest cardio & strength equipment from Technogym • Offering a wide array of classes ranging from Zumba to Pilates, every week • All-inclusive memberships with no sign-up fees • Special pricing for students • Friendly English-speaking staff • Free wi-fi Mon. to Fri.: 8 a.m.-10 p.m, Saturday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m, Sunday: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Via dei Fossi, 56/r 055 23 96 497

Since its foundation in 1982, Medical Service Firenze has developed a solid reputation for providing rapid, reliable assistance to tourists and residents in need of medical attention. We accept all major travel/medical insurance policies. SERVICES INCLUDE: • 24-hour prompt house calls by general practitioners all year round. • Our physicians are available for walk-in visits to our clinic on Via Roma, 4. Monday to Fri.: 11 a.m.–12 p.m., 1–3 p.m., & 5–6 p.m.; Sat.: 11 a.m.–12 p.m. & 1–3 p.m. • Prompt consultation with specialists by appointment. • All the medical staff speak English. • For information or request visit our clinic from Mon.–Fri.: 9:30 a.m.–1:30p.m. Via Roma, 4 055 475 411 medserv@tin.it www.medicalservice.firenze.it

Lloyds Farmacia Cavour Via Cavour, 59/R Firenze We are open for you: Monday to Saturday 9.00 - 20.00

WINTER EDITION www.florencenews.it

Settling Down. Again

How to deal with reverse culture shock

FEDERICO CURCIO

s an expatriate, you thought: “I’ll never be a foreigner in my homeland!”. Wrong. And you just discovered it. The hard way. You were convinced you would step back into your habits, like years ago but, surprise!, culture changed and what used to be common now looks weird. And makes you a weirdo. You thought it would be easy to reconnect but your friends behave like you are an alien, coming from another galaxy. You experience difficulties in dealing with the keyboard, your native language keyboard. Admit it: sometimes you switch back to the keyboard you used for years, when you lived in your host country, be-

cause it feels much easier. When you left, you experienced culture shock. Now, once back, you face reverse culture shock: you are returning to a place you expect to be home but actually is no longer. Yes, both shocks share ups and downs but the inbound one is subtler than the outbound one, because the latter was largely predictable, while the former was totally unexpected. As with all shocks, becoming aware is the first step to manage the issue: you’ll experience misunderstandings with old friends; what you learned abroad won’t always work at home; people won’t listen or get what you mean; you’ll feel bored and detached. That’s reverse culture shock in action. Let’s see how to handle it. Start by accepting the fact that the world changes. Even your home-

land. You were away, for years: your native country wasn’t put in a fridge, but it lived its own life, like many dumped partners do. Get over it. Then, keep on cultivating your global mind. You had an international experience, you learned another language and another culture, your brain developed new skills, so keep them in shape: read international press and watch some of the tv shows you liked so much there. Maintain, when possible, some of the habits you got. This will help you also in healing the reverse homesickness. Yes, you got it: reverse homesickness is when you miss the foreign country you left. Keep in touch with acquaintances and friends you met abroad, not only by some video chats, once in a while, but also by inviting them to visit you and by visiting them when you travel. Distance can kill even the strongest friendships, so make an effort to keep them. Value your international experience at work: ask for tasks that require your special skills, so you can pump your self esteem and reinforce the idea that living abroad was worth it. Connect with other expatriates and repatriates. It’s a safety net you can rely on when things seem tough: share your experiences; confess your helplessness in dealing with your own people; learn new stuff about your country from foreign expats. Surprised? Don’t be. Remember: compared to them, you look a newcomer. Welcome back!

Florence News 21

CITY BEAT

TOURIST INFORMATION

Nicola Coccia Wins Carlo Levi Prize

he book on Carlo Levi written by Florentine journalist Nicola Coccia won the Carlo Levi award. The award ceremony took place in Aliano, where Levi was confined by the Fascist government and where is buried, on Oct. 29. The title of the book, L’arse Argille Consolerai, refers to poetry written by Levi in his exile period dedicated to the woman he loved, Carla Olivetti. Published by ETS Edizioni and divided in three parts, the book L’arse Argille Consolerai. Carlo Levi, dal Confino alla Liberazione di Firenze attraverso Testimonianze, Foto e Documenti Inediti, which was also presented before the Italian Senate, is based on previously unpublished witnesses, photos and documents that Coccia meticulously researched and that bring new evidence on the facts that marked the human, artistic and intellectual path of Carlo Levi. The first part explores the exile period: the ten months when Levi was confined to Aliano and the period that he spent in France with Paola Olivetti, who with was sharing his life and the fight against fascism. Coccia describes the life of Levi with the peasants of the small, isolated village between art (Levi was also a painter), social activities, misery and Malaria. In the second part of the book, the longest,w Coccia reconstructs the Florentine months of Levi, from the German occupation to the liberation of the city. Written almost a as novel, the 25 central chapters have as their protagonists important and common people alike, intellectuals and artists as well as anonymous figures, joint together by the common cause of the antifascist war. Among all these characters, the most striking is that of Anna Maria Ichino, the woman who offered her apartment in Piazza Pitti as a refugee to Levi where, accompanied by the noise of the bullets of the civil war flying in the streets, between the end of 1943 and the summer of 1944 he wrote his masterpiece. Anna Maria Ichino is also the woman who offered to type the manuscript that her lover had written with a pencil, thus transforming it into a book that, among its other merits, had that of raising attention to one of the historical problems of Italy, destined to re-emerge dramatically in the immediate post-war years: the Italian southern question. In the pages of Levi, Aliano becomes the metaphor of all those places in the world that are still waiting for a moral, social and economic redemption. It does so also in those of Coccia: in fact, “still today it is not easy to reach Aliano.”

SOS

EMERGENCIES

Emergency Phone Number: 113 Ambulance Service: 118 Carabinieri (National Military Police): 112 Environmental Emergency: 1515 Fire Department: 115

+ HEALTH SERVICES Piazza Duomo: 055 212221 Open Pharmacies: 800 420707 Veterinary Services: 055 7223683 Poison Center: 055 7947819

LAW ENFORCEMENT Railway Police: 055 211012 Florence Municipal Police: 055 3283333 Local National Police Force: 055 49771 Fire and Rescue Service: 055 24901

Your Private Concierge in Florence Every day problem solving - Workshops Access to treasures off the beaten path Property finding. Ask with confidence Contact us at +39 055 5357527 www.florenceoncall.com

BUSES Ataf: 6 a.m.-9 p.m. : 800424500 Li-nea: Bus info, 055 7355742 FBUSITALIA: SITA NORD: Via Santa Caterina da Siena 15 www.fsbusitalia. it, 800 373760 ETRURIA MOBILITA SCARL (Arezzo): www.etruriamobilita.it 0575 39881

TOURIST INFO POINTS

Via Cavour, 1r - 055 290833 Vespucci Airport - 055 315874 Piazza del Duomo - 055 215440 Piazza Stazione, 4 - 055 212245

ON THE ROAD Roadside Assistance for Foreigners: 800 116800 Obstruction, theft, and towed vehicles: 055 4224142 Highways, route planning and traffic jams: www.autostrade.it/en

AIRPORTS A Vespucci, Firenze Peretola: www.aeroporto.firenze.it/en 055 3061300 Lost and found: 055 3061302 G. Galilei, Pisa: www.pisa-airport.com 050 849300 Lost and found: 050 849400

TRAINS Trenitalia: 89 2021 Interactive Voice Response System: 063000 Italo: Call center, 6 a.m.-11 p.m. 060708

THE MOST FAMOUS DISCO IN FLORENCE CLUB RESTAURANT & SHOW CHECK OUR FACEBOOK OR WEBSITE FOR INFO FOR NEW YEAR'S EVE 'ELEGANCE IN FLORENCE' DINNER AND GALA

YAB FLORENCE The most famous disco of Florence - which is a point of reference for generations both in Italy and abroad (boasting more than 36 years of successful nights after its first one in 1979) – shows a completely novel look, abreast with the syles raging in the world, fruit of studies and collaborations of experienced people who have met the requirements of the owners. Artists such as Robert De Niro, Sylvester Stallone, Sean Penn, Madonna, David Bowie, Yves Saint Laurent and others are our stricly friends.

RESTAURANT YAB is also host a new indoor RESTAURANT with a menu making an ideal haunt for dinners, birthday and company parties. Service at the table in the new restaurant, along with an elegant Snack/Point working untill late, offers a selection of the best beers and the images of Italian and international football matches as well as other great sport events on maxiscreen.

YAB THE APP Take YAB on your mobile phone and follow the many trends that we have always been able to grasp in our programming. Look for "YAB Firenze" on the App Store and Play Store. YAB Firenze, the temple of music and the best DJs!

Via deiSassetti, Sassetti, • 055215160 • www.yab.it Via dei 5/r5• 055 21 51 60 • www.yab.it

24 Florence News

CITY BEAT

Rex Hosts Martera’s House’n’Roll

WINTER EDITION www.florencenews.it

A ‘Port’ for Jazz and A Vinyl for Christmas Traditional Italian Music A

S B

reaking barriers between different styles of music is DJ’s Leo Martera formula for his Saturday night at Rex bar. The idea came when Martera noticed that one-musical-theme nights were beginning to bore people after a while. Thus came the intuition to mix not just songs, but also styles of music. And it worked, making Saturday nights at Rex one of the most appreciated nights in Florence. With the advantage of dancing in a bar and not in a club, the atmosphere is far more easy-going and the night more dynamic. This formula proved successful also because on Saturdays Rex does not mix just different styles of music, but also different kinds of people. For more than ten years Martera has been djing and playing drums

in the most popular Italian and European clubs and parties, such as those organized by Luisa Via Roma with AZEALIA BANKS and CRIS CAB. His live dj-set is a mix between djing and drumming, which interact to create a show of great impact, with sonorities ranging from deep house to the more typical electronic grooves of clubbing. Martera is supported in his productions by some of the most acclaimed deejays in Europe. For more information on Leo Martera check the website leomartera.net.

PAINTING Short and & Longterm DRAWING Workshops on

tepping into Data Records 93 on Via de’ Neri feels a little like being transported to another age, with its pink-and-purple psychedelic interior and thousands of CDs and vinyl records lining the walls. Today the shop remains a haven for music lovers and collectors of rare records alike. Its collection of valuable and eclectic records means that Data Records 93 ships all over the world, and receives visits from DJs from Milan, Paris and London, all looking for uncommon records and enticed by this small shop’s impressive reputation and vast collection.

Data Records

House’n’Roll

Rex Firenze Saturday night Via Fiesolana 25/r www.rexfirenze.com

Via dei Neri, 15/r www.superecords.com Get a 20% discount showing this article

STUDIO RENTAL AVAILABLE www.facebook.com/studiotoscanella/ Via Toscanella 33R , 50123 Firenze 3407371239 340 737 1239 www.studiotoscanella.com www.studiotoscanella.com

Via dei Velluti, 18/20r 055 217672 www.intavola.org

DAY CLASSES

“We never play anything recorded here” he says with a smile. The method of bridging cultures at Porto di Mare is just getting out an instrument and beginning to play. “I’d be keen to talk to anyone who is interested in playing and sharing their music with us,” Francesco says. The club has also created its own big band, the Eskimo Jazz Orchestra. An all-star Tuscan jazz band born under the initiative of

Francesco, it includes some of the biggest and respected names on the jazz scene amongst its members. Among these are trumpeter and band conductor Fabio Morgera, who played under legendary American jazz cornetist; composer and conductor Butch Morris for 30 years in New York; Dario Cecchini, sax and leader of Italian marching band Funk Off; trumpeter Luca Marianini; trombone player Stefano Scalzi and guitarist Riccardo Onori, who both played alongside renowned Italian singer-songwriter and rapper Jovanotti; percussionists Walter Paoli, ex-member of 1970s Italian jazz, progressive rock and electronic group Area, and Piero Borri; clarinet player Nico Gori; and guitarists Paolo Conte, Ivano Fossati and Riccardo Galardini – to name just (a little more than) a few.

Porto di Mare CHECK THE PROGRAM ON FACEBOOK CONTACT FRANCESCO COFONE Via Pisana, 128 055 71 20 34 Porto di Mare

HAIRDRESSING SALON IN VIA DE’ BENCI

Cooking Classes In Tavola aims to spread the rich food and wine culinary traditions of Italy and the Tuscany region through an incredible variety of dishes and recipes to all interested in learning the secrets behind the traditional Italian kitchen. With this intent to promote their knowledge, In Tavola organizes several opportunities for professionals and beginners to participate in cooking and baking lessons with the guidance of professional Chefs in an individual or group setting.

Painting and INTENSIVE Drawing 10 DAYS WORKSHOP

s with any port, Porto di Mare-Eskimo is synonymous with exchange, correspondence, and coming and going. This year the club has an important novelty: courses of the typical Italian dance Tarantella, which will take place on Friday night. Porto di Mare's focus on live music and cultural exchange is one that the man who started the club, Francesco Cofone, holds close to his heart.

THE RESTAURANT OF THE FLORENTINES Located on Via Ghibellina near Santa Croce, Da Que’ Ganzi offers a fresh seafood and meat menu for both lunch and dinner. Tuscan specialties include ribollita and authentic Florentine steak, and all of the cakes and sweets are homemade. A special weekday lunch menu for less than €10 makes the restaurant affordable for anyone. Special dishes: BAKED SEA BASS & TUSCAN STEAK Mon. to Sun.: 12–2:30 p.m. & 7–11:30 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays. Via Ghibellina, 70/r •055 22 60 010 www.daqueiganzi.it • info@daqueiganzi.it

• • • • • • • • • • •

Shampoo & dry (short) ......... €17 Shampoo & dry (long) ......... €18/€20 Cut ................................................ €15 Perm ............................................. €30 Roots corrections........................ €25 Color [full] ................................... €30 Toning .......................................... €17 Highlights.................................... €42 Aluminium foie higlights........... €42 Nails (only on Wed.)...........from €13 Shatush........................................€30 Mon.: 9 a.m.- 1.30 p.m. Tue. to Thurs.: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri. to Sat.: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Via dei Benci, 37r 055 234 48 85

Rex is another thing altogether�

Jazz, Blues & Jazz, House’n’Roll a Different House’n’Roll Blues & Have Dance Show Groove Experience Groove

For our our full full program program check check our For our Facebook Facebook page page VIA FIESOLANA 25R — FIRENZE VIA FIESOLANA 25R — FIRENZE 055 2480331 055 2480331 www.rexfirenze.com www.rexfirenze.com

26 Florence News

LIFESTYLE

WINTER EDITION www.florencenews.it

Bringing Ancient East and Modern West

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

A portrait of Iranian architect Taraneh Azad

SAMINA ABEDINI

“I

’m the point where the East meets the West,” she says about herself and her design style. Her ‘branding’ style is a bridge between two cultures, two different worlds that cross their line of boundary and merge while still maintaining their distinctive fea-

Taraneh Azad

tures: ancient Persia and modern West. Taraneh Azad came to Italy from Iran to further her career, and the choice of Italy proved to be right one. She was born in Tehran, Iran, 29 years ago. In 2010 she received a Bachelor of Architecture from Azad University, Central Tehran Branch, faculty of Art and Architecture. During this period she developed a style based on the combination of ancient Persian art with modern Italian design, fusing her cultural roots with her particular inclination to modernity. Taraneh Azad, an architect, interior and furniture designer, has come a long way from her school days and since then has worked on many luxury projects around the world. The city where she decided to move to further her style was Milan, the Italian capital of modern design, the perfect place to pursue the ambition of becoming a successful interior and furniture designer. Here she enrolled in the Scuola Politecnica di Design, one of the most prestigious design schools in Italy, from which she received a Master’s degree in Interior Design in 2013.

D After graduating, she began working with prominent Italian designers such as Simone Micheli and Samuele Mazza. She is currently collaborating on several projects with Zanaboni, the world leading brand in high-end furniture. This comes as no surprise, since Zanaboni couples the style of classic furniture with today’s advanced technology. Such an assignment puts Azad in a very special position because Iran is regarded as a key market for Italian exports, particularly of luxury goods, and design plays a imperative role within this trend. Wealthy Iranians are fond of Italian furniture, both the classical and modern styles, which is why she is now involved with some important interior design projects in Teheran.

r. Luciano Lanfranchi began his undergraduate medical studies at the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina and at the University of Milan, Italy where he graduated with honors. He received his training in Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery from the University of Milan, Italy. He was also a fellow in facial aesthetic surgery in Policlinique de Gentilly, France and in Hôpital Kirchberg, Luxembourg. Whether you want to reshape your nose or breasts, smooth wrinkles and tighten sagging skin, remove excess fat, or correct a problem resulting from surgery, birth defects or the effects of aging, the wide array of procedures available can help you achieve the appearance you desire. Dr. Luciano Lanfranchi uses the most advanced and time-tested plastic surgery techniques available, with a focus on achieving the most natural looking results in the safest manner

possible. Understanding that each patient is unique, he places great importance on opening channels of communication to provide each patient with a personalized treatment plan tailored to address his or her particular needs and goals, respecting harmony and proportions, thus working in specialized Clinics to ensure maximum safety.

Luciano Lanfranchi www.lucianolanfranchi.com

FURÒ E PUNTERUOLO HANDMADE LEATHER ACCESSORIES

CUSTOMIZED FLORENTINE GADGETS

Via Ghibellina 121r 055 239 8154 www.jackinflo.com

Via del Giglio, 29/r 348 437 0867

WINTER EDITION www.florencenews.it

Florence News 27

LIFESTYLE

“The Future of Furniture? It’s in the Past”

Meet Amir Zobdeh

The style of interior designer Ramin Mirabdolbaghi SAMINA ABEDINI

“T

he future of furniture is in the past,” Ramin tells us. And in many cases the past has to do with Florence, especially when it comes to design. Ramin is an interior designer whose family has been producing furniture in Iran and exporting

its products mainly to Italy for 65 years under the Gallery 20 label in Teheran. After studying art and architecture in Italy, Ramin thought that the growth of postmodernism in the world of furniture would give his family’s company the opportunity to couple ancient styles with innovative and environmentally-friendly technologies. Of course, the Florentine school could not miss the list of those styles, given that his company also maintains a production facility in Italy. Florentine painting or the Florentine school refers to artists belonging to or influenced by the naturalistic style developed in Florence in the 14th century. The two best known representatives of the Florentine school are Giotto di Bondone and Michelangelo Buonarroti. “The Florence School emerged at the same time as the tradition of furniture; in fact, realistic and naturalistic arts were increasingly applied in the furniture industry” says Ramin. Crafts of the Florentine style typically look ornate and feature gold, bronze, stone and marble decorations; in some cases gold paint is

applied to simulate gilding. Decoupage usually includes reproductions of well-known classical Florentine art works. Nowadays, many furniture designers use the Florentine School style. “Our company, a traditional family-owned firm, has been working in the furniture industry for about 65 years. Leveraging on our knowhow, we try to produce pieces of furniture inspired by the Florentine style. Thus, we assigned a major part of our production capacity in Italy to Florentine-style furniture. We just started designing and producing postmodern furniture inspired by schools of the past such as the Florentine one, using anyway low-impact technology respecting the needs of the modern world, which is the most important concept of performance and com-

fort of the furniture industry. Soon we will present the results of our efforts to the world,” says Ramin. Ramin is pleased that the furniture world has moved away from the traditional approach, in which the design is based on one’s needs and pays little attention to aesthetic principles, such as American furniture. Today every piece of furniture he produces is designed according to the principles of aesthetics. “According to this postmodernist approach, the key principles we apply are the visual aesthetics of the past art schools, the functional needs of modernism, and the technology applied in production. Overall, as a designer in this area I would recommend this type of post-modern designs,” Ramin says. The best way to look forward is by looking back.

orn in Tehran, Iran, on Nov. 16,1979, Amir Zobdeh is a fashion and supermodel who has gone from fame in his home country to global recognition. Amir started his modeling career with the German company Desch advertising, with whom he worked for about three years. In 2007 he got an offer from the Italian company Optoline and was nominated best male model for the Italian sunglasses brand Ferrari, while in 2009 he was nominated as exclusive model for Swiss Polo Watches. Currently he has a Modeling Agency in Iran called Zobdeh Modeling Agency.

Florence’s Secret ...see the world with us

Exquisite Craftsmanship • Elegant Designs Famous • Italian Brands

The secret restaurant of Santo Spirito Open every day at lunch and dinner, closed on Monadays Via del Leone 40r • 055 224 192

Each of our items are hand-crafted and individually numbered. Our commitment to fine craftsmanship can be seen in every detail in each piece. Choose from a variety of styles to fit your needs. From formal, to casual, to sport, you can find the exact style to fit your life and coordinate with your wardrobe. Florence’s Secret Piazza del Duomo, 14, 50122 Firenze, Italia +39 055218450 | info@florencessecret.com | www.florencessecret.com

Il Supermercato... da Gustare e deGustare

Sapori & Dintorni is the new way to do the shopping: in the heart of Florence there is a place where Food, Culture and Territory meet. Get in and discover the Big Supermarket to test and taste! Inside you will find many typical products of the Italian food tradition. Buy your favorite product and taste it within the tasting area.

FIND YOUR LOCAL BIG SUPERMARKET IN THE CITY CENTER

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Piazza della Signoria

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Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore

Battistero di San Giovanni

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Via dei Calzaiuoli

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Sapori V&ia Dintorni LG ori Largo Fratelli .Alinari, 6/7

Basilica di San Lorenzo

Via delle Oche

Via dei Sassetti

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Via de’ Tornabuoni

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Via dei Vecchietti

Via dei Pescioni

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Piazza del Duomo

Via dei Pecori

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Sapori & Dintorni Via de’ Bardi, 45/47

THE BIG SUPERMARKETS ARE OPEN: • Monday - Saturday: from 08.30 am to 9.00 pm • Sunday: from 09.30 am to 9.00 pm

WINTER EDITION www.florencenews.it

As American as Pumpkin Pie

Celebrating Thanksgiving in Florence

EMILY OUTTARAC JULIET STEPHENSON

hanksgiving is more than just food. The tradition of giving thanks started with the Wampanoag Native Americans of southeastern Massachusetts who held festivities in celebration of a successful harvest. After similarly experiencing a successful harvest in 1621, the pilgrims invited the Wampanoags to a three-day harvest feast. Although experts have found multiple occurrences of Thanksgiving-style celebrations, this feast is commonly referred to as the “First Thanksgiving.” Over the years, Thanksgiving was celebrated sporadically until Sar-

ah Josepha Hale, magazine editor of Godey’s Lady’s Book, led a campaign to make Thanksgiving a national holiday in the mid-19th century. Hale even wrote to President Abraham Lincoln about her belief that the holiday could unite the Civil War-divided country. In 1863, Lincoln declared the final Thursday in November as the national day of Thanksgiving. Yet it wasn’t until 1941 that Congress finally signed legislation and made Thanksgiving an official national holiday, and it has since developed into a beloved American tradition. The inclusion of pie as an essential element in Thanksgiving is actually a common misconception. The first pumpkin pie was not recorded until 1675, in an English cook-

Florence News 29

FOOD&WINE

book. It was similar to a pumpkin pie, made with spices and boiled squash but wasn’t replicated in America until the early 1800s. The origins of the pie can be traced back to the Greeks, who are thought to have invented the pastry shell. From there, the Romans started putting meats such as mussels or other types of seafood in the pastry, and also began serving pie as a sweet dessert too. The term ‘pye’ actually developed in medieval England, where it was stuffed with different kinds of meat such as beef, lamb and wild game. However, there could be a little truth to the presence of the pumpkin pie at the First Thanksgiving. When the settlers first arrived, they began copying the Native Americans by roasting and boiling the squash as a source of food, in fact fundamental to their diets. So perhaps pumpkin was indeed present at the First Thanksgiving – just not in the form we associate it with today. Later, settlers attempted to make pumpkin more appetizing by cutting open the top, scooping out the seeds, and pouring milk, honey, and other spices into the pumpkin before cooking. Some say this is the first pumpkin pie prototype, gradually evolving into the dish we know today as a staple on our Thanksgiving tables. Regardless of whether you have turkey or prosciutto, Thanksgiving in Florence is a great opportunity to share a homegrown tradition with Italians and other foreigners – after all, who can say no to another serving of pumpkin pie?

A Taste of Italian and Florentine Christmas Traditions YENA LEE

hristmas celebrations kick off on December 8, which is the Day of the Immaculate Conception. This day is usually also the day when Christmas decorations are officially put out in the main piazzas and when Christmas markets start to open. Then just eight days before the magical holiday, which are also known as the Novena, carolers go around singing traditional songs. And if you’re in southern Italy, you might encounter a bagpipe player or two. As Italy is a country of beautiful art, nativity scenes are all around town once around Christmas time. These scenes are often times handmade and remain as an artisanal tradition around the country. If you happen to be in Naples around the holiday, check out their world famous handmade nativity scene in town. As tradition has it, it is customary to not eat any meat on Christmas Eve. This is to cleanse and prepare the body for the actual Christmas day. A lot of Italian families will use Christmas Eve as a day to indulge on fish. Christmas day is the time to indulge on everything.

Lunch, rather than dinner, is the main meal on Christmas day. One highlight dish of the lunch is pasta in brodo, or pasta in broth. Each region decides what the tortellini is stuffed with. But the big thing to look out for is the dessert. Panettone, cavalluci, and pandoro are all popular dessert choices during the holiday. In Florence, there are two notable Christmas markets. One is the German Christmas market in Santa Croce and the other is the Florence Noel at the Leopolda Center (7 euro entrance fee). The markets are run until Christmas Eve, so take a look at what the wondrous markets have to offer. In addition, other winter activities that are available around Florence is to ice skate. You’ll be able to ice skate at Parterre or even snow tube in Obihall. As for food, it is the same fare as the rest of Italy: Taking it light on Christmas Eve and indulging on Christmas. One thing to watch out for is the day of the Epiphany on January 6. Florence celebrates the day with the “Cavalcade of the Magi,” which is a grand parade in the historical center. The parade represents the journey of the Magi and the delivery of the gifts to baby Jesus.

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30 Florence News

FOOD&WINE

Christmas Markets to Brighten Santa Croce

housands of lights are about to bathe Florence in a warm glow as Christmas approaches. This year, the Christmas Markets are returning to Florence from Nov. 30-Dec.16 every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Piazza Santa Croce will turn into a giant German Christmas market for the eleventh edition of the event, with about 55 wooden houses of products from more than a dozen European countries. Traditional alpine crafts and foods from the Alpine regions, such as delicious grilled sausages, hot mulled wine, beer, sweets and decorated gingerbread will make the beginning of the cold season better.

However, the event is not exclusively German, and locally made Italian crafts and foods will also be sold in the market. The tradition was originally born in Northern Europe with the origins of the Santa Claus’ legend. Then it has been spreading throughout Europe and other continents, seeding itself in the rural towns and villages where it has grown in popularity until it had reached the urban fairs and the markets of many cities including Florence. Piazza Santa Croce Nov. 30 - Dec.16 Open every day

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Dine with Dante’s...

amed after Dante Alighieri’s The Divine Comedy, a homely, rustic taverna fittingly lies on Via dei Cimatori, only a few meters away from Dante’s house. The restaurant offers traditional dishes based on medieval recipes. Some are adapted and revisited for the modern age in a way that one maintains the omnipresent feeling of Florentine history and tradition – so much so that Dante himself could walk in and dine next to you. Others are as they were centuries ago. Traditional medieval-style dishes include homemade ribbon pasta with wild boar and mushroom sauce, roast shin of pork with new potatoes and seasonal vegetables, risotto inspired by medieval Tus-

can flavors, and tasting plates of assorted cheeses accompanied with fresh fruit and jams, including the taverna’s specialty hot red pepper jam. Also serving as a wine bar and pizzeria, the restaurant offers an eclectic selection of wines from its cellar, an outdoor summer terrace, and is fittingly decorated in a medieval style with armour and banners.

Taverna Divina Commedia Via dei Cimatori, 7/r 055 21 53 69

...Tiramisù

Ingredients: 500 grams mascarpone cheese 5 eggs- as fresh as you can get them (like at a farmer’s market) 10 heaping T sugar Pavesini biscotti (like Lady Fingers) make a pot of espresso coffee and set aside 1. Separate yolks and whites into different bowls. 2. Mix sugar and egg yolks until smooth. Mix in mascarpone. Set aside. 3. Whip egg whites into stiff peaks and gently fold into egg yolks-do not over mix. 4. Line the bottom of a large pyrex with biscotti, dipping them into the espresso first. 5. Layer some of the mascarpone/ egg mixture. 6. Repeat a few times to make a few layers. 7. Grate some chocolate or sprinkle with cocoa on top if desired.

WINTER EDITION www.florencenews.it

Florence News 31

FOOD&WINE

7 Delicious Reasons to Visit Florence this Season

C. DE MELO

he invigorating nip in the air combined with the comforting scents of chimney smoke and roasting chestnuts means that autumn is officially here. Fashion-conscious Florentines break out their sleek leather boots, wool coats, and cashmere wraps to hit the streets in style. In my opinion, this is the best time to visit Florence. Not only is the tourist season is winding down (allowing you to have the Renaissance city all to yourself), but there are so many culinary delights this time of year. Here are seven autumnal treats to tickle your taste buds: 1. Tartufi Toscani (Tuscan truffles): Their aroma is enough to make your mouth water. These fancy fungi grow beneath the soil and are sniffed out by specially trained

dogs. Pigs were used in the past, but they also like to eat the truffles and it was always a race to get to them first. There are two types of truffle that come from Tuscany. Tartufo Bianco (white truffle), which sells for 2000,00 - 4000,00 euro per kilo depending on the time of year. Tartufo Nero (black truffle), which sells for less than 800,00 euros per kilo. Keep in mind that truffles weigh next to nothing, so a small piece may run about 50,00 euro. What can you eat truffles with? Nowadays, just about everything. It tastes amazing sliced (paper thin) over a fine piece of meat or grated on pasta or eggs. Some people sprinkle black truffle on pizza or mix it with butter to create an elegant crostini. 2. Funghi Porcini (porcini mushrooms): Earthy, aromatic, and silky in consistency, porcini mushrooms are divine. Porcini can be

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diced or sliced, sautéed and eaten in risotto, pasta, or over meats. It can also be thinly sliced and eaten raw, seasoned with some olive oil and a bit of balsamic vinegar. NOTE: Never wash mushrooms! To clean them, use a cloth and carefully remove dirt. 3. Cavolo Nero (black kale): Super healthy, full of antioxidants, and flavorful, this “winter veggie” is mostly used in soups, like ribollita. Cut the stalks short since they tend to be a bit tough, wash them and then boil or steam them until tender. Drain and toss in a hot skillet with some salt, pepper, and olive oil. Serve as a side dish or on toast (as a crostini). 4. Fichi (figs): You have to catch these darlings in the early autumn. I’ve always considered figs to be the luxurious divas of all fruits. There are two kinds of figs: decadent black and elegant white

and both are delicious. They taste wonderful by themselves or as a side to gorgonzola, honey and walnuts. Fig and ricotta cheese is also a classic combination, so look for those two flavors in gelaterias and combine them on your cone or in your cup. 5. Castagne (chestnuts): There is nothing like the warm scent of roasting chestnuts on a chilly evening. Street vendors all over Europe sell them in paper cones and people walk around, munching as they window shop. Ahhhh... Here in Tuscany, they also make chestnut flour that is used in making desserts. 6. Melograno (pomegranate): Every time I eat one of these, I am reminded Hades and how he tricked Persephone. These fruits are beautiful and taste great, but they’re also good for you. This Thanksgiving, why not decorate the turkey

by placing pomegranate seeds all around it? 7. Schiacciata all’Uva (schiacciata with grapes)” This traditional flat bread is usually topped with rock salt or vegetables with savory spices. After the grapes are harvested in the fall, however, just about every forno (bakery) or pasticceria (pastry shop) in town makes this very special version of schiacciata. Normally, black grapes are used but- if you’re lucky, you may find a pasticceria that uses white grapes.

C. De Melo Author & Artist www.cdemelo.com Author of: SABINA: A Novel Set in the Italian Renaissance (available on Amazon.com)

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32 Florence News

FOOD&WINE

A Guide to Tuscan Cold Cuts and Cheeses

C.D. MELO

ow that the autumn nip is in the air, people are exchanging summer salads for heartier fare. Tuscany is a mecca for excellent cold cuts and delicious cheeses. The variety offered is also just as impressive. A plate of freshly sliced meats and fine cheeses, along with some crusty bread and good wine can easily be considered a meal in itself. The following is a list of meats and cheeses that I highly recommend you try when you are visiting Tuscany. MEATS: (keep in mind that they each have a distinct flavor due to unique spices) Prosciutto Crudo: cured / smoked ham that comes from the pig. Delicious with either figs, cheeses, or in a panino. Prosciutto Cotto: baked ham that

comes from the pig. Delicious with mushrooms on pizza or in a panino with artichoke spread. Finocchiona: salami with fennel seed made from pig. Delicious with cheeses or crusty breads. I usually recommend a white wine with good acidity when eating finocchiona since the fat and fennel seeds will coat the taste buds. The acidity in the wine will “scrub” them clean and keep your palate fresh. Salami Tartufati: salami with black truffle made from pig. Delicious alone or with crusty bread. Salami di Cinghiale: salami made from Tuscan wild boar. Delicious alone or with crusty bread. Salami Toscano: salami with black pepper made from pig. Delicious with cheese, bread, or hard fruits (apple, pear). Soppressata: salami made from the snout, ears, and head of the pig. Delicious in a panino.

SNACK BAR ANNA THE BAGEL POINT Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and the jumbo cappuccinos while having a chat with Anna and Stefano, who will welcome you in a warm and friendly way. Grab one of the many homemade bagels, the bar’s perfected specialty since 1990. These bagels and sandwiches have made this snack spot one of the most popular among local Americans. While taking a break in the back seating area you will be pleased to experience the no-charge table service, which places Snack Bar Anna far from the ‘tourist traps’ in the city. Opening hours: Mon. to Sat.: 8:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m. Via de’ Ginori, 26/r 055 23 81 143 miranna.lomartire@gmail.com

Guancia: salami made from the cheeks of the pig. Delicious with cheeses or with crusty bread. Sbricciolona: artisan salami that crumbles (contains fennel seed). Delicious on crusty bread. CHEESES:(the same cheese can taste very different depending on the age) Pecorino Fresco: sheep’s milk cheese that is not very aged (4-6 months). Delicious with fresh fruits or fruit mostarda (fruit sauces infused with mustard, horseradish, or peperoncino). Pecorino Staggionato: sheep’s milk cheese that has been aged for 12 months or more). Delicious with grapes (red globe), mostarda, or drizzled with truffle honey. Stracchino: soft, mild, spreadable cheese. Delicious in a panino with prosciutto crudo or sun-dried tomatoes. Caprino: fresh goat cheese. Delicious with grilled chicken, in salads, or with roasted vegetables (like sweet bell peppers and zucchini). Why not fill a basket with these Tuscan treats and watch the breathtaking sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo while having an evening picnic? Do not forget to wash it down with some good wine!

C. De Melo Author of SABINA and other unique fiction novels www.cdemelo.com

WINE ON TAP IN SANTO SPIRITO Bring your bottle to be filled starting from less than €1.50 straight from the barrels of Il Santo Vino. Here patrons can choose from a wide range of Italian wines alongside selected local specialty and organic products.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.; 5–9 p.m. Borgo Tegolaio, 46/r Tel. 055 53 87 122 , 345 90 93 425 www.ilsantovino.it Facebook: Il Santo Vino

WINTER EDITION www.florencenews.it

Eat and Dance: Greek Style

Ristorante Dioniso Waiters dancing, often with customers, is what happens if you decide to try the restaurant Dioniso. The restaurant offers typical Greek dances and dishes, and on Friday and Saturday night also live Greek music. This formula joins food with music for a full immersion in Greek culture. The restaurant opened in 2000 and is located on Via San Gallo 16/r, between the train station and San Marco square.

34 Florence News

TRAVEL

he historic center of Prague, built between the 11th and 18th century, is one of Europe’s cultural and aesthetic gems. As one of the cities that has effectively preserved much of its original structure, the intriguing architecture of the early Middle Ages, High Gothic period and High Baroque period can be seen nestled on the banks of the Vitava River. Many of the glorious monuments, palaces and churches such as the Hradcani Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral and Charles Bridge were built mostly under the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles IV in the 14th century and remain main attractions. With the prestige of being one of the locations on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Prague’s architectural splendor can be credited with influencing the development of most European architecture, particularly that of Central Europe. Expressing various time periods through monuments created over its existence of over a thousand years, it is a mark of a truly diverse cultural heritage. Sites such as the Prague Castle, the Cathedral of St. Vitus and Hradćany Square in front of the Castle have become internationally known, as well as the Valdgtejn Palace on the left bank of the river, the Gothic Charles Bridge, the Romanesque Rotunda of the Holy Rood and the Gothic arcaded houses of the Old Town Square. Not only does Prague offer much of Europe’s visual brilliance, but it was additionally one of the main centers of Christianity. Founded in 1348, and one of the earliest to be established in Europe, the Prague

Prague: A Fairytale Still Going on

WINTER EDITION www.florencenews.it University was a major factor in the European Reformation. Many ideas of the Hussite Movement were formed at the university, which gave way to the beginning of the reformation. Prague has also been a vital center for the intellectual and cultural advancement of central Europe, being associated with renowned individuals such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Franz Kafka, Albert Einstein and co-founder of the League of Nations, Edvard Beneš. In addition to its rich history, the modern side of Prague complements the city, offering a diverse selection of traditional cuisine, entertainment, art and nightlife. Many of the best Czech restaurants are located amongst the historic attractions. The John Lennon Wall offers a perspective on a more recent period of the Czech Republic, while Prague’s largest nightclub, Karlovy Lazne, offers five floors and ten bars, proving the city’s truly unique ability to mix old with new.

Included in the Itinerary: - Old Town Square - The Prague Castle - The John Lennon Wall - Views from Petrin Hill - Jewish Quarters - 5 Story Night Club

36 Florence News

TRAVEL

An Adventure in the Snow and in the Sky with Bus2Alps

n a small city nestled deep within the heart of the rugged Swiss Alps, relaxing beauty and high-octane adrenaline come to live in perfect harmony. The traditional Swiss village, which sits between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, offers inspiring beauty, scenic mountain walks and action-packed adventures. A day at an Alpine Spa can easily collide with skydiving, snowboarding and night sledding at Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winter wonderland. Interlaken has long been a key destination for winter sport in Switzerland and boasts one of the most picturesque landscapes in the world. With over 45 mountain railways, cable cars, chair lifts and ski lifts, the area is becoming increasingly famous for winter activity. Among the countless locations easily reached is Jungfrau, one of the top ski regions in the Alps containing four main peaks and more than 100 miles of ski trails all linked to Interlaken by mountain railway. The average length of the runs is about 4 to 9 miles, and various ski passes and packages are available. Additionally, the Interlaken area offers over 220 kilometers of cross-country and toboggan terrain. While skiing is one of the main attractions, a multitude of other activities make Interlaken an ideal retreat. Skydiving over the Alps from 13,000 feet up, snowboarding through the open

terrain or skiing at any level of experience are all available during the winter season as well as paragliding, night sledding ice skating and canyon jumping. Snowshoe trekking and fun car, scooter and mountain bike rentals also offer an alternative way to explore the area adventurously. To counteract the energetic Swiss sport, Victoria Jungfrau Spa provides treatments ranging from simple massages to full-day wellness, and is a great place to stretch out muscles after a day on the mountain. Interlaken also offers evening and night time entertainment, such as the daily chocolate show and casino, to finish off a full day of exciting activities. The show, beginning at 5 and 6p.m., reveals how Schuh makes their world-famous chocolate sculptures. Casino Kursaalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s table games open at night for a lively way to end a long day. Traveling with Bus2Alps to Interlaken means that you will receive a 5% discount on almost all adventure activities with the company Outdoor Interlaken. They also arrange an optional day trip to Zurich, the shopping capital and largest city of Switzerland. With an open itinerary, visitors can cater the trip to their own interests, choosing their preferred activities while enjoying the comfort of planned travel and accommodations.

WINTER EDITION www.florencenews.it

AT INTERLAKEN

38 Florence News

TRAVEL

WINTER EDITION www.florencenews.it

Visit Europe’s Christmas Markets

airy lights, gingerbread and snow-dusted squares transport visitors into a magical and timeless world at the Christmas markets in Vienna, Salzburg and Prague. Browse the stalls selling handcarved wooden toys, Christmas decorations, nutcrackers, Advent calendars and traditional confectionary, and enjoy outdoor concerts with a glass of glühwein in hand. This spicy red wine is not only a delectable festive beverage, but a great way to warm up during the outdoor celebrations. Vienna’s Rathausplatz hosts 150 stalls in a shimmering mass of color with Christmas decorations, traditional sweets and child-friendly activities on offer.

Smaller markets can be found dotted around the city, including Riesenradplatz, Spittelberg, Karlsplatz, Maria-Theresien-Platz and Schönbrunn Palace. At Salzburg’s Schloss Hellbrunn Christmas market, visitors can sample Mozartkugel chocolate pralines and enjoy a reindeer-pulled sleigh ride. The city that gave us Mozart also offers popular performances by traditional Salzburg choirs and children’s school groups, which lure crowds every year. The market is opened by the Archbishop on the first Saturday in Advent right after the blessing of the Advent wreaths. Prague’s Old Town Square hosts a red-roofed Christmas village sell-

ing decorations, a children’s workshop and an entertaining program of Christmas events alongside its enticing Christmas fare. Sample the roasted chestnuts and Christmas confectionary on offer, and take home a memento in the form of a special mulled wine mug. At the end of November, Piazza Santa Croce transforms into a German Christmas market from December 3 to 21. Fifty-five wooden house-shaped kiosks take over the piazza, with stalls selling products from various European countries. Traditional German alpine crafts and foods are the main feature of the market, which offers tastings of such specialties as pork shanks, sauerkraut, pretzels, strudel, and

of course beer, mulled wine and sweets. Fortezza da Basso hosts Christmas in the City for the first time from December 11 to 14, with a range of gift items and gastronomic products on display, as well as a dedicated children’s space featuring Santa Claus. The Italian Red Cross in Florence keeps the Christmas spirit alive with its annual Christmas market at Teatro Obihall from November 21 through 23. It’s the perfect occasion for buying all your Christmas gifts in one place, featuring Italian gastronomic excellence, clothes, festive decorations, arts and crafts and games. The market was devised to raise funds for the

charity, and therefore differs from other markets in that its proceeds go towards helping the needy. At the Florence Nöel fair at Stazione Leopolda, specially chosen exhibitors decorate their stands as creatively and enchantingly as possible to disperse the magic of Christmas all across the venue. One of the prime features of this year’s fair is the impressive ‘Polar Ice’ stage, where continuous flurries of snowfall on giant trees are lit by five kilometers of Christmas lights. Florence Nöel also hosts a ‘Christmas Bio — Santa’s pantry stall, a ‘Winter Weddings’, and a ‘Santa’s Workshop’ for children wishing to impart their long-held desires to Santa’s little helpers.

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