The Arte dei Correggiai (The Leather Strap Makers’ Guild)

GUILDS OF FLORENCE

The Arte dei Correggiai was one of the Arti Minori. Their name derived from “corregge“—leather straps used to produce a vast array of everyday and military objects.

Main Products

The artisans of this guild manufactured:

  • Personal Accessories: Belts and straps of all kinds.

  • Travel Gear: Durable suitcases and bags.

  • Equestrian Equipment: Saddles and bridles for horses. Animal hair and mane (crini), known as “borre,” were used to pad the saddles.

Merger with the Brass-smiths

In 1379, the makers of brass objects joined this Guild. Their task was to create buckles and studs (borchie) to decorate and fasten belts and saddles. This collaboration made Florentine products exceptionally elegant and well-finished.

The Decline

The importance of this Guild was closely tied to traditional warfare (shields and armour). With the invention of gunpowder and firearms, the demand for leather harnesses and traditional armour decreased, leading the guild into a slow decline.

 

  • Coat of Arms: Three red, wavy, pendant straps hanging from the lower half of a white field.

  • Patron Saint: The Holy Trinity (SS. Trinità).

 

 

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