Aphrodite - Patrizia Volpato

The Aphrodite Collection represents a convergence of ancient artistic inspiration and avant-garde technological execution, resulting in luminous compositions that are as much works of sculpture as they are sources of light. The primary muse for this remarkable collection is the splendid statue of Aphrodite housed within the Altes Museum in Berlin. It is specifically the goddess’s dense and flowing drapery—a masterwork of classical carving that conveys motion and grace in stone—that these lighting fixtures seek to emulate. The goal is to capture the essence of that fabric, transforming its static elegance into a dynamic, shimmering presence that appears to vibrate with light.

The true achievement of the Aphrodite Collection lies in its ability to bridge millennia, uniting the serene classicism of ancient Greek sculpture with the sharp edge of modern innovation. This process is more than mere imitation; it is a celebration of beauty that is literally transformed into light, acting as a profound ode to art that seamlessly crosses the boundaries of time and medium. The collection boldly embraces a dual identity, demonstrating that high classicism and contemporary design can not only coexist but enhance one another.

This timeless essence is made possible by an extraordinary blend of manufacturing processes. The design conceptually links classical sculptural forms with two distinct and complex crafting techniques: a venerable, medieval glassmaking technique and the cutting-edge process of binder-jetting 3D printing. The latter is of note, as the brand utilizes the only known facility of its kind in Europe, positioning the collection at the absolute forefront of material science and fabrication. This sophisticated fusion ensures that the Aphrodite pieces embody a truly transcendent quality, capable of commanding attention in any era.

The most unique and significant element defining the collection is its unwavering commitment to a traditional Venetian heritage: the craft of Conteria. Conteria is an intricate, heritage art practice involving minute glass beads, a technique currently protected and recognized by UNESCO for its cultural importance. Patrizia Volpato is currently the sole practitioner actively maintaining this unique and specialized craftsmanship.

The choice to incorporate this local method goes beyond its exceptional aesthetic impact, itis a conscious, mission-driven decision to contribute directly to the preservation of a critically endangered cultural art form. By integrating Conteria into a high-end, technologically advanced product, the brand not only honors its regional roots but also ensures the continued relevance and vitality of a centuries-old skill set. This decision transforms the creation of the chandeliers into a tangible act of cultural stewardship.

The Aphrodite Collection stands as a deeply personal tribute to the cultural heritage of the Venetian region—a heritage that is not merely displayed but dynamically reimagined and elevated. By successfully blending the inspired drapery of an ancient goddess, the revolutionary precision of 3D printing, and the delicate legacy of UNESCO-protected Venetian craftsmanship, each piece becomes a true symbol of style, possessing the power to enhance, transform, and illuminate any surrounding environment with a story that spans history and craft.