Everyone in Bodengo knows him. Habitué of the splendid village lying in its valley upstream from Gordona learned long ago how to recognise Romolo’s ventures into the woodlands.
He moves prudently, deliberately, examining each and every tree. With an expert eye. Experience has trained him to recognise the leafy clusters and branches that have had just the right exposure to the sun necessary to give the required elasticity to the fibres in order to make the article for which they are destined.
Romolo is held in high regard for his work. Collecting the wood, making preliminary adjustments and at the end of the year when he returns to the valley he takes the material to his small workshop and begins production. Beech, ash, chestnut and willow are just some of the “ingredients” that he uses to produce objects that no one can make anymore.
Romolo is 92. Born in 1928. He remains the last exponent, a user of ancient knowledge, capable of creating shapes in wood and transforming it into all manner of practical objects and household items like baskets and plates. He uses just a few tools, those needed to cut thin strips of wood which he then weaves together one by one. His considerable regret is that of not being able to pass on his artistry to anyone else. Throughout his life he’s done everything. Woodcutter, stonemason, shepherd, seat thatcher, labourer and carpenter.
Today he is enjoying a well -deserved retirement. He is father of five children who surround him with affection and kindness, together with his grandchildren. “Working with wood provides enormous satisfaction” he relates “It’s my passion, but I also do it for the few who are still looking for this type of product and can’t find them around anymore”. Romolo grins. And is ready with a parting joke. Before saying goodbye he asks where our chat will end up. “I propose, if you could, that you give me a bit of publicity!” he says, laughing.
