Fortunato Pio Castellani

Who was Fortunato Pio Castellani?

Fortunato Pio Castellani was a 19th-century Italian jeweller and founder of Castellani, an Italian jewellery company.

Castellani opened his first shop in Rome in 1814. He specialised in recreating the jewellery of ancient craftsmen, particularly the Etruscans. Castellani based many of his designs directly on archaeological evidence and often incorporated intaglios, cameos and micromosaics into his jewellery. His work became very fashionable throughout 19th century Europe and his shop was frequented by grand tourists and aristocracy. The Castellani dynasty spanned three generations, and, were also noted antiquarians.