Shopping in Venice
I am often asked to give shopping recommendations for clients who are traveling to Venice, so I thought I’d share a few selections that I’ve found during my visits to Venice and from docents who live in the city. Just as we at Context aim to give travelers a deeper understanding of a city through our walks, we also really believe in and try to support local business, so I’m constantly on the lookout for shops that contribute to culture and fabric of Venice.
Everyone shops for different reasons, whether to find a special personal keepsake that will remind them of their time spent in another culture or to get small gifts for family and friends. I think it’s always great to get something that speaks to local artisan traditions, as these tend to be the most unique representations of a culture and are one of a kind items that can’t be found just anywhere. Obviously when one thinks of Venice, they cannot help but think of glass, but you will find that there are many other delightful artisan traditions that are just as precious and amazing.
San Marco 831 (Calle dei Fabbri)
Tel: +39.041.522.9801
I was introduced to this bookbinding shop the last time I was in town by docent Almudena Cros and was immediately taken by the beauty of their work. Owned by Dario Ustino and Giovanna Biagi, the shop binds books in leather, taking on everything from 19th century editions of Bram Stoker’s Dracula to Harry Potter. To get a real sense of these works of art, take at their impressive videos. This is a literary buffs paradise, but even those who can’t afford books can still take of piece of Charta’s work with them. The shop also specializes in hand painted leather journals (pictured above), book marks, eye glass holders, etc, at very reasonable prices, making perfect small keepsakes to bring home.
Dorsoduro 2840 (Campo San Barnaba)
Tel: +39.041.522.6367
This shop always catches my eye when I walk by because of the brightly colored wooden puzzles, mobiles, and architectural reproductions in the display window. Since 1978 this store has been creating gifts and objects in wood, both ready made and made to order. I often think of my niece and nephew passing by because these delightful puzzles and mobiles, often themed about Venice would make the perfect present for them. Signor Blum also creates quite detailed renderings in wood of some of the most famous monuments in Venice, from the Bridge of Sighs to Basilica San Marco, as well as smaller wooden magnets shaped like gondolas and the Rialto Bridge.
Cannaregio 5311 (Calle del Fumo, by the Fondamente Nuove)
Tel: +39.041.522.2265
A legend in the glassblowing community, Mr. Costantini is a native of Burano who began learning the art of glass at age eleven. He then opened his studio in Venice in 1973, where he practices the lamp work method of glassblowing. Though his studio appears quite humble from the outside, do not let that deceive you. Costantini’s amazing creations have been displayed in museums throughout Italy, Japan, and the United States. He specializes in creating glass objects based in nature (insects, birds, flowers, fish), which is why you’ll find the studio stacked full of scientific manuals. These pieces are true works of art and are snapped up avidly by collections, so a purchase here should be thought of as an investment. Whether you buy or not, the studio is well worth the visit, as I can personally say he is one of the most talented and nicest people I have met. When possible, we try to make a stop at the studio during our Cannaregio Neighborhood Stroll in order to learn about the tradition of glass in Venice.
Happy shopping!
Posted by Jessica
Jessica has been living in Rome since July 2005 and manages the Rome and Venice programs. Though based in Rome, her work with Venice brings her on frequent trips up north.
July 24th, 2008 under City Life, Shopping, Venice.
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Just a note regarding Charta: it is particularly indicated for cat lovers. Not only do they have plenty of cat-inspired objects, but every now and then they bring their resident cat along to the shop.
Look out for the catty Monna Lisa or the feline Doge portrait!
Comment by Almudena Cros — July 30, 2008 @ 2:12 pm