A long time has gone by since children were polishing shoes in the streets to earn a bit of money. Indeed, long ago, like the trade in "Sciuscià", the memorable Oscar winning film by director Vittorio De Sica. A humble trade, perhaps, but one which hides art and poetry. Today, in 21st Century Rome, near Piazza del Parlamento, the passion for this trade is found in my hands and I proudly shine shoes every day in my shop. I chose that which belongs to the past, wanting to recount an important page in our history. After all, the trade is simply that, but in today’s "Sciuscià", I added "Chic" to my shop's sign.

My passion for shoes has urged me to continuously buy new ones and dedicate great care to them. Well then, I thought: "Why not do it for others as well?" And so it was. "A brilliant idea!" I’ve been told, which over the years allowed me to acquire a vast number of customers. Both common people and personalities: tourists, browsers, those passing through Rome for work and those who live in my city. There are numerous VIPs among the names of those who have passed by my shop.

A cosy parlour, where you’ll be enveloped by the strong odour of the polish and creams I prepare. Where, among brushes, shoe shelves, vintage photos and old craft tools, you can relax and inevitably exchange small confidences. The showcase is covered with newspapers, articles that talk about me and my work. One thing I have come to learn, there are differences between men and women even in this field. I have no doubt, "Men take care of their shoes, women don’t!" Women aren’t a good example; they break them and throw them away. Men, on the other hand, enjoy the pleasure of having shoes that are constantly used but also looked after, because they know, "It's the shoes that make the attire and not the other way around!" I'm happy with my business and if I may say: ..."It’s a step in the right direction!!!”

Rosalina