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, 60 x 151 x 68.2 cm The front of this refrigerator portrays a classic Sicilian puppet theatre, with its tents, wooden platform and backdrop decorated with landscapes of Sicily. On the stage are Orlando (hero par excellence, the prototype of all subsequent knights) and Troiano, the Saracen who challenges him to avenge his father’s death, but who will be defeated and slain. On the sides are depicted various puppets of the type controlled by a “maniante”, or marionettist, who is positioned on a raised deck, hidden from the spectators’ view, transmitting movement to the puppets on stage with rods and wires. Painted on the top are the elements that make up the armour of a paladin: helmet, cuirass and shield.