The City of Canals, Venice, has enchanted the world with its picturesque canals and architecture and gifted an extraordinary treasure to the world of interiors – Venetian Polished Plaster. With its lustrous finish and marble-like appearance, this exquisite plastering technique has captivated homeowners and designers alike. In this blog post, we will delve into the beautiful world of Venetian Polished Plaster and uncover the secrets behind its charm.
Historical Origins:
Venetian Plaster, also known as ‘Stucco Veneziano,’ dates back to ancient times—however, this art form burgeoned during the Renaissance period in Venice. The affluent Venetian society, known for its love for luxury, played a pivotal role in popularizing this technique. The plaster was used not only for its aesthetic allure but also for its practicality. It proved to be a resilient alternative to natural marble, which was both heavy and expensive.
Composition:
One of the secrets behind the mesmerizing appearance of Venetian Polished Plaster is its composition. It is primarily made of lime putty (calcium hydroxide) and crushed marble. Lime putty is made by adding water to quicklime, and the reaction between these substances gives the plaster its adhesive property. The inclusion of marble dust imparts the characteristic sheen and durability. Some modern-day variations include acrylic and resin to enhance workability and reduce drying times.
Application Technique:
The application of Venetian Plaster is an art that requires skill and patience. It is applied in multiple thin layers using a trowel. Each layer is meticulously polished to create a smooth surface. One of the lesser-known secrets is that the angle and pressure applied during the trowelling process can significantly affect the final appearance. A skilled artisan can manipulate these factors to produce a variety of textures and finishes.
Burnishing:
Burnishing is the process that transforms Venetian Plaster from a matte finish to its signature polished appearance. After applying the final layer, the surface is polished with a specialized tool or trowel. The friction generated through this process causes the lime particles to react with carbon dioxide in the air, creating calcium carbonate. This reaction contributes to the plaster’s hardness and results in the much-desired high-gloss finish.
Customization:
Another secret behind Venetian Polished Plaster’s allure is its limitless customization options. Pigments can be added to the plaster mix to achieve an extensive spectrum of colors. Marbling, marmorino, and scagliola also allow artisans to imitate natural stones and create intricate patterns. This ensures that each application of Venetian Polished Plaster is unique and can be tailored to personal tastes and design aesthetics.
Maintenance and Longevity:
Venetian Polished Plaster is renowned not only for its beauty but also for its durability. Its lime content has natural antibacterial properties, making it mold-resistant. Furthermore, it can ‘breathe,’ which means it doesn’t trap moisture, making it an excellent option for humid environments. A little-known fact is that the surface continues to harden over time and can even develop a patina that adds to its charm. This plaster can retain its beauty for decades with minimal maintenance, such as occasional dusting and wiping with a damp cloth.
Environmental Impact:
In today’s world, sustainability is an aspect that cannot be ignored. Venetian Polished Plaster is an environmentally friendly option. Its primary ingredients, lime and marble, are natural and abundant. Moreover, as lime cures, it absorbs carbon dioxide, thus positively impacting the environment. Additionally, the longevity of Venetian Plaster reduces the need for frequent replacements, further minimizing its carbon footprint.