An outstanding pair of large 19th century antique pietra dura panels after the Italian Corbarelli workshops. Each highly decorative panel is exceptionally made, depicting twin handled floral filled vases formed using precise inlays of various marbles and semi-precious stones. These include lapis lazuli, agate, verde antico and Siena, specially chosen for their natural variations in colour and tone. A black background draws attention to the striking vibrancy of the stones with each framed in white marble.

The Corbarelli Family

Originating from Florence, the Corbarelli were an important 17th and 18th century family of Italian sculptors who specialised in creating decorative pieces using inlays. Skilled in the art of pietra dura (Florentine mosaic), their work is present to this very day in regions throughout Italy, the Corbarelli’s signature inlays decorating sacred architecture, tombstones and altars.

These two pietra dura panels are after a near identical panel from the altar of the Abbey of Santa Giustina in central Padua, Italy, executed in the 17th century by the Corbarelli workshops.

Provenance

From the collection of Sir Frederick Arthur Gore Ouseley (1825-1889). Precentor of Hereford Cathedral and Professor of Music at Oxford, Ouseley was a 19th century composer and priest. In 1851, he embarked on a near yearlong expedition across the continent, visiting churches and cathedrals including Florence, Siena and Rome. In 1856, Ouseley founded the College of St Michaels at Tenbury Wells. The college closed in 1985. Ouseley’s collection now resides in the Bodleian Library, Oxford.

Additional Dimensions

Each 71cm high, 48cm wide