Leather and a legacy that unites generations: discover the artisan workshop of Jesús Manuel Cancino

Jesús Manuel Cancino's hands, weathered by years of dedication, tell the story of a craft that travels through time. He inherited his love for this art from his father more than 15 years ago, and that legacy goes back to his grandfather and great-grandfather. With his son, five generations of the Cancino family have dedicated themselves to creating crafts in wood and leather, two raw materials that naturally intertwine to give life to unique pieces capable of beautifying any corner of the home.

“I had the pleasure of learning everything I know from my father, who passed away a year and a half ago. Today I continue his work. I miss him every day and I identify with him every second. I am proud that my son is carrying on this craft that we have been passing down from generation to generation so that it will not be lost,” says Jesús, a member of the “Manos del Valle Calchaquí” Artisan Route, as he precisely weaves the leather that will shape a chair destined for a new home.

The process begins much earlier, when the cowhide is soaked in water to soften. It then goes to the drying rack, where it dries in the sun for several days until it reaches the ideal texture. Once dry, it is divided according to its thicker or thinner sections, allowing for the creation of different types of weaves. It is soaked again in water, drained, and then, ready for cutting, the process begins: in the Cancino family, this is done in spiral and round shapes, entirely by hand. Afterward, the strips are stretched and the hair is removed with a knife. Only then does the raw material appear, ready to be transformed into handcrafted pieces.

Jesús makes all kinds of furniture according to order: chairs, nightstands, headboards, footboards, parasols. All are born from the combination of woven leather and pine wood from the valley region. “I know the product I make, I know its quality, and I know that the customer takes home a strong, durable piece of furniture that will last at least 20 years,” he says proudly.

Before dedicating himself to this trade, Jesús worked in agriculture and was also a taxi driver, but he feels that craftsmanship is what truly changed his life. “With this, I was able to raise my three children, send them to school, and treat myself and my family to something nice,” he shares. Today, he celebrates having his children work alongside him, learning and supporting him. “This way, I can pass on this trade to them and show them that by working, you can live a peaceful life and earn a decent living,” he concludes.