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Reggio Emilia. The working of stone
Province of Reggio Emilia
There is information about the opening of quarries for stone extraction in the Reggiano Apennines at the end of the 19th century, when the first road networks for the connection of the biggest villages were built.
Many stone-breakers, stone-dressers worked in Ramiseto, Busana and Collagna to produce material for building works, manufactured products, architectural elements such as portals, arches and several precious artistic objects.
Some schools had been founded to manufacture the finest pieces and were skilled to transform the stone into real masterworks, because they handed down an ancient tradition.
Production today comprises works typical of the local tradition like arches, portals, windows, stairs, fireplaces and artistic pieces like sacred bas-reliefs, Majesties or portraits of any dimension, restorations and gifts.
Moreover, stone sculpture is thriving, just like hand working techniques like flaming and lining, hand finishing on artistic works.
In Castelnovo ne’ Monti, in the Predolo quarry, the extraction and working activity of the local stone is really successful and the demand is high for restoration works.
The school of stone sculpture in Canossa is important for the tradition of stone working. In this school, the history of art is revisited and typical traditions of the local community are restored through a mix of art and handicraft.
Every year the school organises courses comprising practical and drawing lessons, and the history of art.
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