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Gardentable, Bistrotable with Pietra Dura Marble Top

Price:$3,937.42

$5,298.42List Price

About the Item

Antique Italian pietra dura and cast iron side table Italy and French/ Continental Cast iron, Belgian black marble, malachite, lapis lazuli, jasper, rose quartz, chalcedony, agate, and more 19th / 20th Century Dimensions: H x D: 72cm x 60cm Description: This finely crafted side table is made from a variety of high quality materials and showcases the beauty and intricacy of the centuries-old pietra dura technique. The piece brings together the work of several European craftsmen, embodying the concept of globalization within the decorative arts. The round tabletop features the ancient and complex art of pietra dura. Translated from Italian as ‘hard stone’, this technique - also known as Florentine mosaic or commesso (meaning ‘fitting together’) - involves inlaying semi-precious and precious stones to form elaborate decorative patterns or images. The origins of pietra dura trace back to Ancient Rome, where it was known as opus sectile and used for floor and wall decoration in buildings. The technique was later revived in 16th century Florence, where it evolved into a refined form of ‘painting in stone’ applied to decorative objects and furniture (most commonly tables and cabinets) rather than architectural surfaces. This table showcases a charming design, with a central medallion filled with a vibrant floral composition typical of pietra dura works. Stones such as malachite, lapis lazuli, agate, jasper, rose quartz, and chalcedony are among the fine materials used in this intricate design. The central motif is framed by a geometric, symmetrical border composed of an equally refined selection of stones. A band of green marble and lapis lazuli encircles the meander-like pattern, adding further depth and elegance to the piece. Supporting this exquisite top is a monopodium stand crafted from cast iron. While cast iron furniture first started to be made in the 18th century, it became especially sought after during the Victorian era (1837–1901). As the bourgeoisie took a greater interest in ornamental gardens, cast iron furniture became a favoured addition due to its durability and decorative appeal. The richly textured material allowed for intricate designs that blended beauty with functionality. In France, cast iron furniture was a popular choice for bistros, valued for its durability and ability to withstand constant use. The present stand is finely cast, featuring three rounded feet adorned with rope-like ornamentation. Creating a pietra dura panel was a highly collaborative process involving multiple skilled artisans. The process began with an artist producing a detailed design, often in watercolour, which guided the selection of stones. The artist carefully considered the colour palette, ensuring it complements the natural tones and veining of the available stones. Next, another artisan traced the design in pen or pencil, breaking down the image into its individual components to be inlaid. Selecting the right stones was an intensive task, and expert artisans often used the natural veining in the stone to create shading and texture in the final composition, as can be seen on the flower petals decorating the tabletop. Paper templates of each section were affixed to the selected stones, usually between 2 and 4 millimetres thick, which were cut into the desired size using a bowsaw. When working with particularly small or fragile stones, a thin slab of slate was sometimes applied as a backing to prevent cracking. The stone was clamped vertically on a wooden bench, and the craftsman skilfully cut the shape using a curved chestnut branch strung with soft iron wire. While one hand operated the saw, the other applied a damp abrasive with a spatula, gradually forming the precise edge of each piece. To ensure a perfect fit, the edges were further refined using metal files and abrasive powders. Gluing the sections together involved the use of a natural adhesive made from heated beeswax and rosin, strained and applied to their backs. These pieces were then mounted on a backing slab, often Belgian black marble, and gesso was used to fill gaps and reinforce the panel. Once assembled, the panel was turned over and polished to level its surface. A final polish of the top surface with agate and increasingly fine grades of emery revealed the lustrous, colourful design, ready to be mounted onto a piece of furniture or decorative object. Worth knowing: The most renowned mosaic workshops were in Florence, within the galleries of the Uffizi Palace, and flourished under the patronage of the Medici family. In 1588, Ferdinand I de’ Medici elevated their status by designating them as the official Court workshop, further enhancing the prestige of pietra dura creations. Florentine artisans became highly sought after, with rival workshops in countries such as France establishing their own royal studios and often luring Italian craftsmen to join them. However, Italian pietra dura is not the only form of hardstone mosaic. In India, a similar technique known as parchinkari emerged, directly inspired by Florentine art but adapted to reflect a distinctly Indian aesthetic. This style is most famously seen in the intricate inlay work of the Taj Mahal. Condition: The condition of this table is very good; the pietra dura and cast iron are well preserved. We also recommend the following literature on this subject: Annamaria Giusti, The Art of Semiprecious Stonework, 2006 Judith Miller, Furniture, 2010

Dimensions:
Height: 28.35 in (72 cm)Diameter: 23.63 in (60 cm)
Materials and Techniques:
Iron,Marble,Inlay
Place of Origin:
Italy
Period:
20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
20th Century
Condition:
The condition of this table is very good. Both the pietra dura top and the cast iron base are well preserved and have been carefully cleaned.
Seller Location:
Greven, DE
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU5419245005112

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