Francesca’s family business has been making traditional small leather goods on the outskirts of Florence for years, combining good quality locally sourced soft leathers and traditional production methods.

Sadly many small leather products now sold throughout Florence are brought in from other countries, often outside of Europe, making it increasingly harder for these small family businesses to continue.

Alongside these traditional products, like the soft glass cases with the golden 'fleur de lye' design synonoymous with any trip to Florence, are brightly coloured purses and cosmetic bags.

Whilst the history of leather production goes back to the 1200’s, today you can visit the ‘Scuola del Cuoio’ at Santa Croce Church in Florence to see how these items are made, and even take a course to learn the traditional methods.

'A human activity that was created in the mists of time and perfected over centuries of tradition and ingenuity'.

Coin purse snap close - Florentine aubergine