Francesco Maglia

This photographic project delves into the world of Francesco Maglia, the historic and prestigious Milanese umbrella maker established in 1854. Documenting this sixth-generation family business offered a unique glimpse into enduring Italian excellence and artisanal mastery.

Renowned worldwide, Francesco Maglia stands out for its exquisite craftsmanship, combining traditional techniques with the finest materials to create luxurious, functional, and timelessly designed umbrellas. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted, reflecting a deep dedication to quality and elegance.

The aim of the photography was to capture the essence of this heritage brand – the artistry, the dedication passed down through generations, and the tangible quality that appeals to a discerning global clientele seeking authentic, handcrafted luxury.

Hands carefully fitting patterned orange silk fabric onto a polished wooden umbrella handle.
Wide view of the Maglia Francesco workshop showing sewing stations, fabric storage, and general workspace.
Detailed close-up of a gleaming, curved wooden umbrella handle showing wood grain and metal closure detail.
Francesco Maglia, current CEO, wearing a striped apron, standing in the Maglia workshop near finished umbrellas, with a Weimaraner dog nearby.
Woman meticulously hand-sewing the canopy panels onto the frame of an umbrella.
Clients examining bolts of colourful umbrella fabric choices on shelves in the Maglia showroom/workshop.
Francesco Maglia in an apron discussing details with visitors in the workshop environment.
Corner workstation at Maglia showing tools, fabric samples, notes, and umbrella-themed decor.
Woman artisan concentrating on detailed assembly work on an umbrella frame or shaft.
Wider shot of the Maglia workshop floor with artisans working at tables amidst materials and tools.
Close-up of patterned umbrella fabric with a polished metal tip component resting on it.
Hand holding a small, ornate metal component, likely a ferrule or part of the umbrella's tip.
Francesco Maglia enthusiastically presenting umbrella components in the workshop.
Close-up of hands examining the details of a natural bamboo umbrella handle.
Francesco Maglia demonstrating the structure of an umbrella frame to another person.
Francesco Maglia selecting a bolt of fabric from the extensive storage racks in the atelier.
Collection of various colourful and patterned fabrics at Maglia workshop.
Smiling Francesco Maglia displaying a piece of rich purple fabric in the workshop.
Older gentleman client inspecting a large bolt of green umbrella fabric.
Detailed view of hands meticulously assembling the metal tip components onto an umbrella shaft.
Close-up of a hand filling out a bespoke order form for a Maglia Francesco umbrella.
View of several classic polished wooden crook handles stored neatly together.
Hand guiding an electric rotary cutter precisely cutting fabric on a green mat.
Extreme close-up of hands performing intricate mechanical work on an umbrella component, possibly using a specialized tool or machine.
Woman artisan in a red vest inspecting fabric or components at a workstation in the Maglia workshop.
Close-up of hands carefully securing the lining fabric to the interior ribs of an umbrella frame.
Tray filled with neatly arranged, finished umbrella handles featuring textured wood grips and metal accents.
Detailed close-up of hands using a specialized tool to work on the fitting of a polished wooden umbrella handle.
Man in a yellow sweater meticulously assembling or inspecting the complex rib structure of an umbrella frame.
Storage shelves lined with numerous small, labelled boxes, presumably holding various umbrella parts and fittings.
CEO Francesco Maglia seated at his desk in the office section of the Maglia Francesco atelier.
Francesco Maglia, wearing an apron, being filmed for an interview within the workshop setting.
Francesco Maglia busy on a telephone discussing orders.
Group portrait featuring Francesco Maglia (center, in apron) with colleagues and visitors inside the Maglia workshop.
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