The "Indoradòri"

The more luxurious the gondola – luxury, ceremonial or wedding – the more the “indoradòr” ’s work is called for.

Gilding can be carried out on fixed parts of the gondola, such as the bow “fiubòni” (boards joined with an edge that cover the ends of the boat) for which the “indoradòr” works at the “squero” (boatyard), and removable parts that can be gilded at the “indoradòr”’s shop.

The “fòdre” (“longhe o curte” – long or short), the thin boards that cover the inner part of the edge of the boat can be gilded at the “indoradòr” ’s workshop. Gilding is also carried out of the “parècio”, the seats for the passengers: for example the “cimièr”, a decorative element of the back of the central seats, or the “careghini”, the movable chairs. The “book” of gold leaf is laid on a cushion and cut.

Using the “penéta” (a little brush with marten or squirrel hairs), the gold leaf is picked up and placed on the piece. When the piece is completely covered, it is gently beaten with the brush.

The “indoradòri”, together with the “intagiadòri” (engravers), “specièri” (mirror makers), “miniadòri” (miniaturist), made up the ancient art of “depentòri” (painters), whose Statute dates back to 1271.