During the time of the Medici, starting in 1442, the shops on Ponte Vecchio were rented to the Beccai (butchers), who used the same space to tan hides after processing meat. This activity was closely linked to the need for large quantities of water, taking advantage of the Arno River flowing beneath the bridge.
Later, Ferdinando I de’ Medici ordered that the shops on Ponte Vecchio be assigned exclusively to goldsmiths, who still hold these spaces. As a result, over the years, the tanners moved to Santa Croce sull’Arno, which became the most important center for many and different tanneries.
The tanners’ ability to exploit the proximity of the Arno River made a significant contribution to the development of the cluster. Equally important was the presence around the town of a vast wooded area, essential for supplying substances like vegetable tannins needed for tanning hides.
And certain ancient stories evolve,
eventually becoming part of the contemporary.
From such a fascinating history, which still represents a significant hub of the leather industry, to a family story, that of our Sturlini family, who embraced the ‘know-how’ of tanning and leather processing, bringing it inside the factory and giving birth to Tinto in capo (Garment-dyeing).
The garment-dyeing process, both for the hides and the uppers, is carried out in-house, a unique exclusive in the footwear industry, using only top-quality leathers, natural dyes, and pigments.
The uppers, already attached to their linings, are immersed in a drum for tanning, allowing them to undergo a complete soaking process. The result is a more casual shoe with a less uniform color, creating that effect of absolute uniqueness. Each shoe has a different color intensity, resulting in a vintage and lived-in appearance.
Pursuing the goal of making unparalleled footwear, we have applied our know-how of Tinto in Capo to different styles in the HERITAGE line.
Italian craftsmanship, timeless elegance, comfort, and innovation.
Informal elegance, comfort, and premium materials for a unique style.
