Rags, rabbit skins and invisible watermarks: 750 years of papermaking in Fabriano

Abstract

"Very few industries can boast of such an ancient tradition: Fabriano paper is undoubtedly an important part of the Italian cultural heritage. Twists and turns, unexpected discoveries and convoluted mysteries: the hero of this story may have no legs, but has nevertheless spent the last 750 years running across continents, crossing States, rivers and seas, its light body carrying the weight of the words of all humanity. It is silent but it can sing, it can fly if it wants to, but it usually stays here on solid ground, always in our midst, and sometimes even changing the destiny of the world. It is paper, born in China but moving in 1264 to Fabriano, where it grew up, acquiring the features that to this day make it a unique and irreplaceable instrument of culture and communication. You will find out about the history of paper in Fabriano, its secrets, its journeys, and some of the personalities who, from the thirteenth century onward, have used it to create immortal works and accomplish great deeds. You will also learn about the places where it grew up and spread its wings, and you will even learn how to make it at home. A read as engrossing as a fairy tale that offers some curious and lively discussions. Paper lives, long live paper!"--Provided by publisher.

Contents

1264-2014: Paper is still with us -- From China to Fabriano: a history of paper -- Paper as a guarantee of security: official documents, watermarks and banknotes -- Technology and craftsmanship -- Fabriano: an example of enlightened industry: the Historical Archive of the Cartiere Miliani -- Fabriano worldwide -- Fabriano: a universe of paper -- The journey continues.