Légzéses

Légzéses are a traditional and ornamental craft originating from Hungary, characterized by decorative ventilation grilles, or more specifically, elaborate steel or cast-iron window and door grilles.

These intricately designed grilles, often called légzéses grills or Hungarian window grills, feature interlocking metal pieces, which not only allow for airflow and light to pass through but also serve as an aesthetically appealing element in a building's facade. Légzéses often adorn facades, particularly on historic buildings, government buildings, and even on doors within residences.

Designs can vary in complexity and style, with inspiration drawn from Art Nouveau, Baroque, and many other architectural influences. Each piece typically consists of multiple curved and curved-aligned components assembled together, necessitating great precision during the manufacturing process.

Manufacturing légzéses involves the use of metal sheet or cast iron as the primary material. Intricate details include decoration on the framework's elements made from common ironwork tools like lathes and hammers. Indeed, traditional légzéses manufacturers utilised time-honoured techniques that allowed for durability while reinforcing structural integrity.

Today, légzéses grilles have become highly sought after for their historical and cultural value, with most installations in recently renovated buildings having been restored or recreated to original specifications or inspired by early example designs. This profound interest in this type of metalwork underscores its significance in architectural history, particularly in a nation where ornate metal grilles continue to hold a revered position.