Who is Niccolò of Bottega Obscura

I'm an Italian bookbinder who has been practicing and preserving traditional bookbinding techniques and designs since 1999.

 

My work consists of three main tasks. 

Initially, I focus on revitalizing standard books and Bibles manufactured in factories. It's rewarding to witness these items rejuvenated with vigor and elegance once more.

Second is to produce journals, sketch books, recipe books, guest books etc which I also refer to as 'books'... I categorize them as 'books' because when filled with your words, ideas, thoughts, dreams, drawings, and paintings, they will become 'books' in the future. As a book binder, it's great that my work will protect your stories and memories securely.

My latest activity involves creating marbled paper by hand. These unique papers are utilized as endpapers and feature a variety of patterns and colors.

 

My childhood was filled with books.
My father operates a cafe shop in a library, which became a second home to me in my early years. The library and bookshop remain integral to my daily routine.
I delved into book restoration for a few years and expanded my focus to traditional bookbinding. Extensive research and experimentation are crucial for achieving a refined design and intricate details in my binding.

 

About my bookbinding style.
My bookbinding style reflects 17th and 18th Century Italian techniques, showcasing intricate patterns. Leather, a key material in traditional bookbinding, offers rich historical insights into tanneries, bookbinders, and the era.
I utilize authentic 24K gold leaves for my binding. Gold is an exceptional material, akin to leather.