Frigoriferi d'arte

Smeg & Dolce&Gabbana

Since 1973 the Patania family have been making the traditional Sicilian Pupi, the famous puppet, in San Giovanni la Punta, Catania. Synonymous with professionalism, creativity and tradition, the Patanias have built an artisan business which has Sicilian tradition and unique charm at its core. These “treasures of the past” are refined, harmonious and unique objects. They are the result of a passion for the craft, a sense of belonging to their land and a meticulous love for quality materials. The age-old technique, which simply requires the hands of an expert craftsman, is an unchanging element in the creativity of the Patania family. In addition to the creation of the Pupi, a constant search for vintage items, and nurturing customer relationships, the Patania family also specialises in making the traditional “Coffe”. These antique baskets hold food for the horses and are kept under a cart. Today they have been turned into straw bags covered with velvet, fringes and leather of the finest quality, decorated by hand and with ceramic additions.

Enamel and oil, 60 x 151 x 68.2 cm This refrigerator illustrates the principal steps in the construction of a Sicilian cart by the master craftsmen of the island. On the sides we find the figures of the carver and the painter: the first, portrayed with the tools of his trade, is shown crafting the wooden elements and carving the friezes; the second meticulously paints traditional figures and ornamental motifs on the components completed by the first. The finished work, exquisitely decorated, occupies the central panel. Painted on the top is a chiave, the crossbeam that joins the two shafts of the cart.