The Arte dei Vaiai e Pellicciai was the last of the Arti Maggiori. This guild was fundamental in connecting Florence to the markets of Northern Europe and the East.
Member Specializations
The members were divided into two main categories:
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The Vaiai (Vair-dressers): They worked with “vair” (vaio), an extremely expensive fur obtained from the Siberian squirrel. It was a symbol of the highest prestige.
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The Pellicciai (Furriers): They handled all other types of skins, from common hides to luxury furs.
The Production Process
The Guild included many artisans who oversaw every stage of the work: they tanned the skins (concia), cut them, and sewed them to create cloaks, garments, and luxury accessories.
Origin of Materials
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Importing: The most precious furs were purchased abroad, specifically from Northern Europe and Asia.
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Local Production: For less expensive products, local animals such as foxes, wolves, and rabbits were used.
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Coat of Arms: The mystic lamb with the “Cross of the People” in a blue square, set against the typical pattern of vair fur.
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Patron Saint: Saint James (San Jacopo).
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Guild Headquarters: Via Lambertesca, at the corner of Chiasso Baroncelli.
