Florence Fakes

In this episode, we dive into 19th-century Florence, where the booming art market blurred the line between authentic Renaissance works and skilled forgeries. As British and American tourists sought pieces of Florence’s artistic legacy, artisans adapted to demand, sparking a new wave of design rooted in Renaissance inspiration. Figures like Giovanni Bastianini mastered techniques that even fooled experts, influencing the beginnings of Florence’s design industry. Discover how this blend of art, imitation, and innovation laid the foundation for Florence’s reputation in global design.