Magnificent 19th Century Italian Micro Mosaic of Exceptional Quality and Stunning Artistry. Arguably the finest example of a micro mosaic tile we have ever offered. These miniature masterpieces actually arose out of necessity as large scale mosaics in the mid to late 1800s in Italy were falling out of favor as architectural detail save for St. Peter's Basilica. That project not withstanding, artisans and craftsman were finding themselves out of work. Employed by the Studio del Mosaico della Fabbrica della Basilica di San Pietro, later known as the Vatican Mosaic Workshop, they supplemented their income by creating miniaturized versions of their mosaics to sell to private customers.
As Italy enjoyed a dramatic increase in monied travelers most especially aristocratic young men who traveled to Italy for the history and culture, these became the quintessential souvenir, not only capturing, for example, the Coliseum, but in a medium that called back the very large mosaics from antiquity.
Offered is rather large portrait of the Roman Forum with jaw-dropping precision given the extremely small size of the tiles,
slightly smaller than a grain of rice. Examined in frame tile is in a porthole frame of considerable age and weight. Tile is 6.25" in diameter securely framed within the near 3" thick frame measuring 11.75 x 11.75" square and can stand based on heavy easel mounted on back. In choice condition, we note only a tiny area of grout discoloration in the blue sky noticeable only at very close inspection and with a loop.
Please contact us for additional photos or if possible preview at Goldberg Auctions.
Estimated Value $800 - 2,000
Decor and Accesories
