Gheorghe Ciuncanu

The Last Oltenian Coat Embroiderer

📍 Topești, Tismana, Gorj

Oltenian Coat Embroidery Găitane Application Schileresc Style Dimie Wool

Gheorghe Ciuncanu is the last active embroiderer of traditional Oltenian wool coats in Gorj County, working on two machines nearly 140 years old — one German (1876), one French — that produce the iconic black găitane embroidery on white dimie.

These coats were worn by Queen Marie of Romania and later reinterpreted by Valentino, Tory Burch, and Dior. Ciuncanu learned the craft from his father, spent decades at Arta Casnică Tismana, and represents over 60 years of continuous practice.

Each coat requires over 100 hours of meticulous work. He is designated Living Human Treasure by Romania's National Commission for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage (2025).

Artisan Disclaimer

Each piece is entirely handcrafted using traditional techniques and heritage materials. Variations in embroidery, texture, and structure are natural and part of the authenticity of the garment.

All items are made-to-measure. Production times may vary depending on complexity and artisan availability.