Advance of modernity
Manufacturing production of crafts continued meanwhile to develop, both in keeping with the ancient methods as well as entering into the fringes of industry, but with few exceptions without visibility and prestige appropriate to its economic and cultural importance.
For a long time the idea prevailed that the artisan was a figure destined to disappear, a figure that was marginal and archaic, almost medieval, or at most Renaissance, but a remnant of other eras. This view obscured the real economic and social dimensions of the artisan world and its internal complexity.
Generally, in European context the emphasis was more on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), whether organized according to district or not. Economists and sociologists have tried to focus the backbone of our economic system in that way. But the concept of SMEs tends, once again, to overlook the fact of that the artisan is tiny but thriving, a vital fabric for the economy and society.
From the more traditional to the most innovative, artisan crafts rose from the ashes of mass production and standardization, meeting changing tastes and values, and exploiting opportunities offered by new information technologies. Building construction as an example, was expected to have been turned upside down by the industrialization of prefabricated components. This did in fact occur to a degree, but, at the same time with increased professionalism and with the creation of business structures of an artisan nature: conveyors, crane operators, fitters, carpenters, etc.
If we look at the impressive phenomenon of recovery and revitalization of the historic centers of European cities, these were and are still the land of choice of artisan firms and provide opportunity of recovery of ancient knowledge and experimentation of new technologies.
Similar considerations can be made for many other sectors, for this reason, the concept of SMEs, where generalized and made banal, should be made with caution. This in fact tends to obscure the world of artisan crafts which is intertwined rather than adjacent with that of small business.
Moreover, in many cases, even the concept of “industrial district”, which in many areas of Europe has highlighted the local presence of significant parts of our industry, should open up to the indispensable role of crafts for the creation and reproduction of the “social and human capital”, that is to say, the crucial resource on which today like yesterday our economic development must be able to rely.
Now consider and discuss with your tutor the following questions:
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- Why has the idea prevailed for a long time that the artisan was a figure destined to disappear?
- Why has industry failed to completely replace the knowledge and skills of the artisans, and been unable to do without the help of skilled craftsmen?
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