19th Century Italian Lombard Certosina Marquetry Frame

Frame with Certosina inlay, an Italian style of marquetry consisting of small pieces of various materials arranged in geometric patterns, with the decoration extending along all four sides of the frame, alternating between panels carved with geometric motifs and symbolic medallions. At each corner, there is a small engraved square panel depicting the face of a figure in profile or three-quarter view—presumably saints or biblical figures—set within a halo or a circular frame. The outermost border features a distinctive “wolf’s teeth” pattern or two-tone (light/dark) diagonal bands. The inner bevel (the frame’s rebate) is decorated with a three-dimensional herringbone or continuous arrow motif, crafted from mother-of-pearl and dark walnut inlays. The vertical sides feature an alternating pattern of rectangular plaques engraved with floral motifs and plaques with geometric design. In the center of the left side is a circular medallion bearing the Cross of Jerusalem (a cross potent flanked by four smaller crosses), a symbol of the connection to holy sites, while in the center of the right side is a medallion depicting the symbol of the Franciscan Order (two arms crossed in front of a cross: the bare arm of Christ and the clothed arm of St. Francis, both bearing the stigmata). In the center of the top side is a circular medallion enclosing a cross surmounted by elements resembling leaves or crowns, while in the center of the bottom side is a medallion featuring a zoomorphic figure—apparently a stylized horse—surmounted by a small crown. The object shows signs of age that attest to its authenticity and period the 19th century. There are some minor missing pieces, natural cracks in the inlays, and wear on the edges, particularly in the lower left corner where the underlying wooden structure is partially visible. A small brass ring is attached to the top for hanging the frame. The sides of the frame also feature recurring inlays in the shape of a Greek cross.