Guilds, Technology, and Economic Change in Early Modern Venice

Market Power and Patent Strategies: Evidence from Renaissance Venice

“…Yet, there are no patents related to these technologies in our data. Similarly, Caniato [1996] and Trivellato [2008] describe substantial innovation activity for the Arsenal and Murano's glassblowers which are also guilds for which we observe very little patenting.…”

“…Pfister [2008], examining the introduction of the silk ribbon engine loom, emphasizes the key role of the guild power structures, together with the political context and the type of technology. Finally, Trivellato [2008], in her analysis of Venetian silk and glass production, emphasizes the crucial role of intra-guild interactions and the importance of statutory norms. Our study contributes to this literature describing how bargaining between patent holders and other guild members was shaped by statutory provisions, which are an important dimension of the heterogeneity driving the different reactions of guild to patents across technological and geographical contexts.…”

“…On top of this vibrant trade, artisan production also flourished both in Venice and in Terraferma. The Arsenal was one of the largest industrial sites in Europe, and glassmaking was among the most prestigious urban occupations at the time (Trivellato [2008]). The mainland was marked by a lively wool and silk production (Demo [2013]).…”

“…Historians have provided anecdotal evidence of guild opposition. For instance, Trivellato [2008] describes the opposition of the Venetian silk spinners' guild to the patent application of Iseppo Giovan Perin Mattiazzo for a new hydraulic mill for spinning and throwing silk. 4 It is difficult to assess the success rate of guild opposition, because Senate records only provide information on patents that were eventually granted.…”