Born in Milan, in 1921, Silvio Gazzaniga is the artist who designed and created the FIFA World Cup Trophy after its predecessor, the Jules Rimet Cup, was won outright by Brazil in 1970.

Our site: In researching for this interview, I came across a village called Gazzaniga in the Lombardian province of Bergamo. Is there some family connection there, and would that be the region's insignia on your lapel?
Silvio Gazzaniga: Well, as a matter of fact, I have ties with Bergamo, as my grandfather was from the province. I'm very pleased about that too, as the people are famed for their strong character. However, the insignia is the Ambrogino, a medal the city of Milan awards for civil distinction. I've lived all my life there and have given a lot to the city. Naturally, receiving it was very gratifying and a real honour.

How would you best describe your craft? Do you consider yourself an artist, a sculptor? I consider myself a sculptor of medals as, aside from the occasional larger works, I've spent my entire life doing medals and trophies, well cups to be more precise. That's my main profession, so to speak.

Your creations are inextricably linked with the world of sport. Have you always worked in this arena? Yes, although not exclusively. I've also created religious objects. My long-term involvement in sport is due to an enduring collaboration with the Bertoni company, or GDE as they're now called. I've been their artistic director for forty-five years now.