Idee e progetti di avviare una “ fabbrica” di ottone nella repubblica di Venezia, 1543-1792

Abstract

Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc particularly prized since ancient times due to its color similar to that of gold, was used in personal adornment, domestic and ecclesiastical furnishings. In the Republic of Venice it was imported from German countries. However, there were mineral deposits of copper (particularly in the Imperina valley near Agordo) and zinc (especially in the area near the town of Auronzo) in the territory of the Republic, known since the 15th-16th centuries. Starting from them, a national production of brass could certainly have been started. But all the projects and attempts remained just on paper. The only one who perhaps would have had any chance of success – that of establishing a brass “factory” in Agordo – died, together with the Republic, at the end of the eighteenth century.