Antique Micro-Mosaic Tabletop – Grand Tour, Roman Views, Malachite, Millefiori
Antique Italian Micro-Mosaic Tabletop (19th Century / Grand Tour)
An exceptional and historic micro-mosaic tabletop from the Grand Tour era
(19th century, circa 1850), likely of Italian (Roman) origin.
The black stone slab (onyx) is inlaid with exquisitely detailed micro-mosaic
medallions (tesserae) depicting classical Roman motifs and architecture:
Central medallion (diameter: approx. 11 cm): St. Peter’s Square in Rome, f
eaturing the colonnades and the obelisk, framed by a border of vibrant green
malachite.
6 surrounding medallions (each 7 x 5.2 cm): Roman ruins and structures
(including the Colosseum, the Temple of Vesta, and a triumphal arch).
Outer ring: A blue mosaic band featuring delicate dove medallions (based
on the „Pliny’s Doves“ motif).
The piece is set within a gilded wooden frame.
Signs of age: Condition consistent with age, showing visible signs of use and
restoration.
Crack: A distinct crack runs across the surface of the black stone slab (clearly
visible in the detailed photos).
Restorations: Traces of restoration are present around the malachite border
and in areas of the mosaic imagery and grout lines.
Surface & Wood: The surface shows signs of age-related craquelure and rubbing.
The back of the wooden frame displays historic marks from its original crafting
and mounting.
Please examine the high-resolution detailed photos carefully, as they are an
integral part of the condition description. A rare collector’s item or restoration
project for enthusiasts of antique mosaic art and Grand Tour memorabilia.
