Manetti
Manetti is a renowned Italian manufacturer specialising in the production of high quality gold, silver, platinum, and palladium leaf, as well as gilding accessories, combining centuries-old artisanal techniques with modern technology to serve artists, designers, and chefs worldwide.
Manetti: Finest Florentine Gold Leaf Since 1600
Giusto Manetti Battiloro is a family-owned Florentine company renowned for its premium gold leaf. With a history spanning more than 400 years, Manetti combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to create gilding materials for artists, restorers, and craftspeople worldwide.
The story began in Florence in the early 17th century, where the Manetti family operated a small workshop of gilders, engravers, decorators, and gold beaters. In 1602, Matteo Manetti was commissioned to restore the gilded ball atop the dome of Florence Cathedral, beginning a long association with prestigious projects.
In 1820, Luigi Manetti began transforming the workshop into a factory, increasing production while preserving their traditional methods. Manetti continued to establish themselves; however, in the 20th century, both World Wars halted their progress. In particular, the Second World War brought devastation when the factory was destroyed in 1944, but the company recovered.
The family’s specialist knowledge also gained international recognition. Manetti records that the British Museum consulted Giusto Manetti in 1953 about the deterioration of the gold-covered coffin of an ancient Egyptian mummy. His expertise was also sought for advice on gilding the nose cones of rockets for NASA.
By the 19060s, Manetti gold leaf was being used in major projects around the world, including the Palace of Versailles, Windsor Castle, and the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
In 2002, 400 years after Matteo Manetti’s original work, the company contributed to the restoration of the gilded ball on Florence Cathedral once again. Today, Manetti remains one of the world’s leading manufacturers of metal leaf, continuing a tradition passed down through generations of the Manetti family.
Manetti follows a strict responsible-sourcing policy, using certified no-conflict gold obtained from suppliers committed to lawful and ethical practices.