Phellem collection

Phellem is the outermost layer of the tree bark, similar in many ways to our own skin. Although quite conspicuous and essential for the protection of the tree, bark has been much less studied and used than wood.

This collection treatises on its incredibly fascinating biodiversity offering any range of colours and textures. The bark of a tree is as individual as a fingerprint and its polymorphism – variety in pattern and colour – is simply stunning.

These skins are strongly characterized and made different by genetics of each individual wood species as well as the environment and the organisms grew up in it. The bark of different trees has evolved to make best use of the habitat in which each species occurs, the main function is always to protect the arboreal body keeping the vital layers away from temperature and external stress.

When bark is damaged a natural defense mechanism intervenes, a complex liquid substance hardens in contact with air creating a sort of conservative barrier keeping the vital wood layers away from bacteria, fungi and parasites. It’s the resin. In a similar way, alcarol preserves the bark of different species covering them with an innovative bio-sourced transparent resin, functional declination of the tree’s natural process.

This flat and clear layer allows you to appreciate the intact botanical variety of the organic matter, frozen as it appears in its original habitat. The interlocking compositions refer to the ancient wood inlay technique, which has always sought the most different woods to get the maximum expressive possibilities.