An interview with Marco Fedi, master chaser at K-OVER
At K-OVER, beauty is shaped through artisanal mastery. In this interview, we have the pleasure of speaking with Marco Fedi, master chaser, who shares his journey, artistic style, and role in making each K-OVER creation a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Rooted in the Florentine tradition of goldsmithing and silversmithing, Marco Fedi embodies the most authentic soul of the artisanal craft. With over thirty years of experience, he has chosen to carry forward the art of chasing with passion, dedication, and deep respect for manual work. In this interview, he reflects on the value of the workshop and his role in a project like K-OVER, where the elegance of precious metals takes shape under the hands of true masters.
How did your passion for the art of chasing begin, and what were the key moments in your training?
“In truth, my passion for chasing didn’t begin at school but in the artisan workshop. However, the goldsmithing course I attended at the Istituto d’Arte in Florence was important because it taught me the basics of the techniques used in goldsmithing and silversmithing, as well as art history.
What lessons did you learn working in the historic artisan workshops?
“This trade is learned in the ‘bottega’ (workshop). I began working in a silversmith and chaser’s lab while still in school. It takes time to develop technical manual skills: first, you learn how to handle the chasing tools and coordinate them fluidly with the hammer; then, you learn repoussage, giving volume to a drawing by working from the reverse. Watching skilled artisans at work also teaches you a lot — you ‘steal with your eyes.’ Gradually, you begin to create something from nothing — that’s where the passion is born.
In the workshop, you also encounter the real world of work, facing different customer requests and needs. At first, you try to imitate the master; later, your own personality and taste come into play.”
Can you tell us about your teaching experience at Escola Massana in Barcelona?
“It was a very interesting experience. I introduced the art of chasing to students who, although trained as goldsmiths, were not familiar with this technique.”
What was it like working on the silver reliquary of Saint Antoninus for Florence Cathedral?
“The reliquary was the result of a collaboration between several artisans: the sculptor modeled it in clay, the caster melted the silver, and I handled the final chasing and detailing. I didn’t find it particularly difficult, as I already had years of experience behind me.”
How did your collaboration with K-OVER begin?
“Mr. Andrea Pacini was introduced to me by a colleague, a metal spinner who was working on the covers. He was looking for a chaser, and when he told me about the idea — an ‘artistic silver dress’ to embellish bottles of champagne and wine — I thought it was brilliant! It became a creative exchange of ideas, with the artisan actively involved in both design and technical execution.”
What techniques do you use to create K-OVER pieces?
“Mainly chasing, including engraved chasing and repoussé, which gives more depth to the design. I also use oxidation to enhance contrast, and for colored details, I apply cold enamel or metallic powders. All of this helps define the chosen design, whether classic or modern.”
How do you see the evolution of craftsmanship in today’s world? And what advice would you give to a young person wanting to pursue this path?
“Unfortunately, I think interest in craftsmanship has declined compared to the past. New technologies have strongly influenced the economy and modern culture, and it’s often difficult to make people understand how many hours it takes to produce a handcrafted item.
To a young person considering this path, I’d say that creating with your hands is incredibly rewarding — but it’s also essential to find the right commercial channels.”
