A close parallel of craftsmanship is to be found in the world of haute couture. Often abbreviated to “couture” today, it is actually the “haute” which implies the highest levels of expertise in the construction of garments. Time, rather than money is the key factor for enthusiasts.

“Bear in mind that it takes two people two weeks to make one suit all by hand,” boasts a couture veteran working at Chanel for eighteen years. Meanwhile, a museum quality carved mirror frame can employ several master craftsmen working together for months each to produce.