VENETIAN PLASTER: AN ANCIENT PRACTICE
Dom Lo’s Journey to Venetian Plaster
At Dom Lo Studios, we find solace with the aged and traditional beauty in the materials we work with. Our bond to minimalism has led us to a deep appreciation for materials that speak to great and simple truths, aesthetically, culturally, and historically.
Dom Lo Studios finds its inspiration largely within such ancient civilizations as Pompeii, the city cast into ashen sculpture by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Every choice we make in regards to materials and resources comes down to attention to its appearance and texture. We avoid such materials that would create a plain look for our products; we want the piece to speak through both sight and touch, with the natural patterns of its texture acting through both senses. Venetian plaster is of course one such material whose appearance offers a soothingly opaque surface to feel and admire for its beauty and historical significance.
History
Venetian plaster, or stucco, is one such material whose roots go as far back as the year 3000 BC, used by ancient civilizations in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions. It was used both as a binding and decorative element, making it a true staple of minimalist artistic expression, as it united senses of practicality and aestheticism.
Limestone, the fundamental component of stucco, originates from the remains of marine life and shelled creatures that settled in oceanic environments. Transforming under immense pressure and heat, the remains of these creatures re-crystallized into what we know as limestone (calcium carbonate).
These ancient civilizations had the right idea, as they erected huge lasting structures out of a material harnessed from the elements.
Venetian Plaster Textures:
Grassello (Shiny)
A fascinating example of Venetian plaster that results in a shiny, glossy finish. Due to the addition of marble powder, there are many small grains of marble that form the material’s reflective finish. At Dom Lo, we enjoy its mirror-like quality and its culmination with our mirror designs.
Marmorino Veneziano (Matte)
This Venetian plaster offers a different integration of minerals and marble powder that creates a matte finish. With the right culturing effect, it more closely resembles a harder stone material than it does a typical plaster.
Intonachino (Thick)
The thickest of Venetian plasters we have to offer, this selection creates a heavy finish adorned with varying colors and textures. This plaster perfectly embodies Dom Lo’s appreciation for old lasting material and aestheticism.
Care Guide
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Venetian plaster products are coated with a special wax that makes these pieces water resistant. Instead of scrubbing, we recommend that a very soft cloth be used to simply dust the product, without the use of any harsh chemicals that come in most cleaning solutions.​