Very fine antique Italian Victorian era 4 1/4" tall gilt bronze picture frame with locket style front door framing an oval pietra dura plaque with colorful floral inlay! A visually stunning piece, small but powerful!
Pietra dura is made by cutting and fitting thin pieces of colored hardstone into a carved stone base to create detailed images, patterns, or scenes—almost like a stone mosaic, but with perfectly flush joints and polished surfaces. The technique became especially associated with Florence during the late 16th century under the patronage of the Medici family. An artist first draws a full-scale design, often floral motifs, birds, landscapes, or architectural scenes. Craftsmen then chose naturally colored stones for specific visual effects, often including lapis lazuli for blue skies, malachite for green leaves, jasper for reds & browns and agate, onyx, mother-of-pearl, and many others. A beautiful contrast between the rich gold framework and jet black plaque here!
Very good condition. There are three tiny hairline cracks in the black outer around the seven to nine o'clock areas of the pietra dura panel. The backing with easel stand appear to be a replacement. See pictures for all measurements.
