For decades, Ludwig Reiter has sourced the finest pelle intrecciata - artfully woven leather - from R79, a traditional family-run workshop in Italy’s Marche region. Founded in 1979 by Roberto Francavilla, the company is now led by his sons Francesco and Luca, who continue to uphold the same passion, precision, and dedication that defined its beginnings. R79 has earned a reputation for crafting exquisite woven fabrics from vegetable-tanned buffalo hides.
Highly sought after by Europe’s most discerning designers. 

A visit to Fermo, the historic heart of artisanal craftsmanship in the Marche, is also a journey to the roots of traditional leatherwork. For centuries, Fermo has been a stronghold of artisanal excellence, where cottage industries thrive in hilltop towns and villages. Weaving, and leather-work have long been integral to the region’s cultural identity, sustaining communities that live and work in symbiotic harmony.

The craft of pelle intrecciata, or woven leather, is a true testament to the art of craftsmanship. It begins with selecting the finest buffalo hides, which are then carefully joined together and cut into long, even strips of leather. These strips undergo multiple polishing and smoothing steps to ensure consistency in texture and appearance.

Once perfected, the strips are taken to the weaving mill, where hundreds of them are meticulously mounted onto the weaving loom by hand. This intricate process requires precision and patience, as each strip must align perfectly to create a seamless pattern.

When the loom begins its work, the leather strips are interwoven into a striking, durable design that speaks to the skill and time invested in every piece. The complexity of the process, combined with the quality of the materials, is what makes woven leather so luxurious and why it commands such a high price.

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