History

Copper was the first metal ever to be used by Man. It was discovered in the Stone Age and first used between 8 and 10000 years ago. Already by 3500 BC, we had learned to line copper with tin, the most inert of metals. This made the pan more hygienic. From the Renaissance to the time of the World Wars, the art of the coppersmith flowered and prospered triumphantly. Shortages then in raw materials caused most copper production to be reserved for the arms industry. It was at this time that its use in the kitchen was substituted with cheaper metals. Chefs and restaurateurs however have never abandoned the use of this metal, ideal for the preparation of risotto, patisserie custards and creams, sauces and for sautéing and braising.

The choice of this metal is motivated by the fact that copper has quite exceptional conductivity (392°) compared to that of aluminum (225°) and stainless steel (16°). Thanks to this characteristic, copper pans, if of a suitable thickness, guarantee completely even cooking, even on a low flame, because the heat conducts very quickly from the base to the walls. Used properly and with care the food does not stick to the bottom, avoiding burning. Copper gives a constant cooking temperature and a considerable saving in energy, thanks to the very rapid rise to temperature. Cooked properly, the flavor and nutritional properties of the food remain intact

Copper has held an esteemed place in culinary history from Ancient Rome to the Renaissance to today. Its use has been celebrated in literature as far back as the early cookbooks such as "On the Art of the Cookery " by Apicius. We have taken as one source of inspiration the utensils that the craftsmen outside the convents made for the poor people. Likewise we look to the pieces that the metal workers inside the palaces made with cunning skill to satisfy the needs of the court cook (and to show the wealth of their lord). Then as today, these objects have been produced with almost unchanged forging and tinning methods.

These splendid creations have the dignity of a unique piece, worthy of a place on the table. The hand applied fired tin linings insure no transfer of metal to mar flavor or taste. These copper items are the most significant expression of the extraordinary technical and artistic capacity of our master coppersmiths and with them we relive centuries of history, experiences and traditions.

Ruffoni Copper Museum