Detail from an intarsia piece by Fra Damiano da Bergamo, early 16th century. Note the subtle dots of greenish-blue in the covered archway.
Featured on PDR in the essay Exquisite Rot: Spalted Wood and the Lost Art of Intarsia
The technique of intarsia — the fitting together of pieces of intricately cut wood to make often complex images — has produced some of the most awe-inspiring pieces of Renaissance craftsmanship. Daniel Elkind explores the history of this masterful art, and how an added dash of colour arose from a most unlikely source: lumber ridden with fungus.
Also appearing in the essay…
Detail from an intarsia piece by Fra Damiano da Bergamo
Artist
Date
early 16th century
Digital Rights
- Labelled “Public Domain” (with link to CCO license)
- See their general rights page
- We offer this info as guidance only
Image Size
835 x 960