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Francys Ferreira

"I was born in the city of Caxias in the Northeast State of Maranhão. When I was seventeen I moved with my family to Rio de Janeiro. For some years, I worked in a beauty salon and become a good manicurist. When I was 28 years old I married Adam, an artisan that was making wonderful leather maps and he taught me pyrograph techniques – the art of designing with fire. I learned it very quickly and we worked together for many years.

"Today I can say that my maps are of great quality. I am also thankful to Adam for all the research he did on antique maps. Thanks to my craftsmanship, I was able to raise my children, a couple of twins, on my own after divorcing my ex-husband few years ago. Thanks to the support of Novica customers, I am able to expand my production and improve the quality of my leather maps.

"I use fine leather, simple tools and well practiced fire engraving methods to create my works of art. All the lines and shades are burned into the leather, thus rendering it impossible to erase or fade. Natural dyes are injected into the skin to create deeper contrasts and sharpness. The top layer is treated with plant solutions to protect the surface against time and insect infestation. Finally, a natural paste is applied to attain a fine finish. The completed piece comes in with a display rod and can be be used right away to complement any setting, whether it is home, office or a hotel room.

"The maps are entirely crafted by hand, which makes each piece very unique. They are highly decorative, elegant and engaging. They capture the romance and adventure of the age of discovery. Many people love to look at old maps of places they have visited, places they lived in and areas they are familiar with. "Since I use hand tools and natural leather, each map is slightly distinct, which attests to its individuality. I make each map with much love and attention to detail. I hope they will become part of your family's history, for generations to come."