Framed Paesine, 20th Century

A small decorative panel consisting of a cut stone slab, whose natural patterns suggest a landscape, set in a Dutch-style frame.

Paesina, or pietra paesina, is a sedimentary rock composed mainly of limestone and clay, formed 50 million years ago, found primarily in the Florence region, which has earned it the nickname Florentine marble. Infiltrations of manganese and iron hydroxide create veins of various colors suggesting landscapes where one can imagine the sky, the sea, mountains, cliffs, shores, or even ruins, depending on the arrangement of the patterns. Once cut and polished, the successive slabs each display different designs, making each paesina a unique piece. This stone has been prized for its decorative aspect since antiquity, but it was during the Renaissance that it reached its zenith, used to create inlays in pieces of furniture, particularly cabinets. From the 17th to the 20th century, paesine plaques were used as paintings in their own right, sometimes embellished with small painted figures.

Minor damage to the frame.
Good overall condition.
20th century.

Dimensions:
Framed: 24 x 25 cm;
Image size: 11 x 12 cm