Italian Pietra Dura Plaque of a Bird, Florence (Il Mosaico di Firenze)
Italian Pietra Dura Plaque of a Bird, Florence (Il Mosaico di Firenze)
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Item: Italian Pietra Dura Plaque of a Bird, Florence (Il Mosaico di Firenze)
Additional Description
Fine Italian pietra dura (pietre dure) hardstone mosaic depicting a small bird perched upon a branch, composed from carefully cut and fitted semi-precious stones against a polished black stone background. The plaque is housed in its original ebonized and giltwood frame and retains multiple labels verso from the Florentine workshop and gallery where it was purchased.
The composition demonstrates the traditional Florentine commesso technique, in which thin slices of colored stone are cut and assembled much like a puzzle to create naturalistic imagery. The bird's plumage appears to incorporate several contrasting hardstones, likely including agate, jasper, malachite, and other decorative stones.
Era
Mid-20th century, likely circa 1950–1975.
History
Florence has been internationally renowned for pietra dura craftsmanship since the late 16th century, when the Medici Grand Dukes established workshops dedicated to creating decorative works from hardstones. By the 20th century, specialized Florentine ateliers continued producing finely executed plaques and panels for collectors and tourists seeking authentic examples of the city's celebrated stone mosaic tradition.
The retained gallery labels identify the piece as originating from "Il Mosaico di Firenze", located in Piazza Santa Croce, Florence, an establishment specializing in artistic works executed in pietre dure.
Provenance
Retains original label for "Il Mosaico di Firenze"
Piazza Santa Croce 15R, Florence, Italy
Retains additional workshop/gallery label verso
Accompanied by handwritten identification notes on the backing board, apparently describing stone varieties used within the composition
Materials
Pietra dura (hardstone mosaic), semi-precious stones, black stone ground, ebonized wood frame, gilt liner, paper labels.
Dimensions
Overall: TBD
Sight: TBD
Disclaimers
Wear consistent with age and display. Frame exhibits minor scuffs and edge wear. Backing paper and labels show age toning, adhesive residue, and handling wear. Not examined out of frame. Stone composition appears stable with no obvious losses visible from the front.
Item: Italian Pietra Dura Plaque of a Bird, Florence (Il Mosaico di Firenze)
Additional Description
Fine Italian pietra dura (pietre dure) hardstone mosaic depicting a small bird perched upon a branch, composed from carefully cut and fitted semi-precious stones against a polished black stone background. The plaque is housed in its original ebonized and giltwood frame and retains multiple labels verso from the Florentine workshop and gallery where it was purchased.
The composition demonstrates the traditional Florentine commesso technique, in which thin slices of colored stone are cut and assembled much like a puzzle to create naturalistic imagery. The bird's plumage appears to incorporate several contrasting hardstones, likely including agate, jasper, malachite, and other decorative stones.
Era
Mid-20th century, likely circa 1950–1975.
History
Florence has been internationally renowned for pietra dura craftsmanship since the late 16th century, when the Medici Grand Dukes established workshops dedicated to creating decorative works from hardstones. By the 20th century, specialized Florentine ateliers continued producing finely executed plaques and panels for collectors and tourists seeking authentic examples of the city's celebrated stone mosaic tradition.
The retained gallery labels identify the piece as originating from "Il Mosaico di Firenze", located in Piazza Santa Croce, Florence, an establishment specializing in artistic works executed in pietre dure.
Provenance
Retains original label for "Il Mosaico di Firenze"
Piazza Santa Croce 15R, Florence, Italy
Retains additional workshop/gallery label verso
Accompanied by handwritten identification notes on the backing board, apparently describing stone varieties used within the composition
Materials
Pietra dura (hardstone mosaic), semi-precious stones, black stone ground, ebonized wood frame, gilt liner, paper labels.
Dimensions
Overall: TBD
Sight: TBD
Disclaimers
Wear consistent with age and display. Frame exhibits minor scuffs and edge wear. Backing paper and labels show age toning, adhesive residue, and handling wear. Not examined out of frame. Stone composition appears stable with no obvious losses visible from the front.