Large 19th Century Florentine Heraldic Pietra Dura Plaque, Allegory Of Peace, C.1890
Lincoln, United Kingdom
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Dimensions
Wear Condition
Good
Material
Other Wood
Style
Antique, Traditional, Italian Antiques
Product Details
Description
This magnificent late 19th-century Italian Pietra Dura (Florentine mosaic) plaque is a virtuoso work of lapidary art, representing the absolute pinnacle of luxury commissions from the historic workshops of Florence. Often described as "painting in stone," this complex technique involves the meticulous cutting, fitting, and polishing of specimen hardstones and semi-precious minerals to create a seamless, fluid pictorial composition.
Unlike standard, decorative multi-figure works, this specific plaque is a highly sophisticated, bespoke Heraldic and Allegorical Commission. Woven directly into the stone landscape are precise aristocratic charges: a prominent coat of arms featuring three chevrons, balanced by three doves perched in the trees. In European heraldry, the three chevrons traditionally symbolise amplified protection, faithful service, and the robust founding or fortification of a noble house. The three doves perched in flourishing branches signify peace, fidelity, and a family lineage rooted in prosperous, divine tranquility rather than bloody conquest.
The plaque acts as a beautiful Allegory of Harmony and Peace, depicting a seated musician serenading a companion under the direct protection of the noble family crest. The master lapidary artist has seamlessly utilised the natural veining, variegation, and shading of choice jaspers, agates, chalcedonies, and colored marbles to simulate the organic textures of fabric folds, tree bark, and lifelike tones, all set against a flawless, solid black Belgian marble ground.
History & Origin
Technique: Commesso Fiorentino / Pietra Dura (Florentine Inlay Mosaic)
Period: Late 19th Century (Circa 1880–1900)
Origin: Florence, Italy
Materials: Inlaid specimen hardstones (including jaspers, agates, and porphyry) on a black marble base.
Dealer’s Comments
"This is an absolute masterpiece of the craft, and its sheer physical presence is extraordinary. At 54cm square and weighing a very heavy 6.6kg, it is a truly substantial piece of lapidary art. What elevates this far above standard Florentine plaques is the fascinating heraldic narrative. The inclusion of the three chevrons and the three doves of peace means this wasn't a standard souvenir made for the general Grand Tour market; it was a bespoke, high-status commission designed to celebrate a specific lineage or noble estate. The seam-work between the stones is practically microscopic, a testament to an elite Florentine workshop. Framed beautifully, it balances incredible weight and history with a clean, decorative finish that will effortlessly command any high-end wall space."
Height: 54 cm / 21.3 inch
Width: 54 cm / 21.3 inch
Depth: 7 cm / 2.8 inch
Weight: 6.6 k.g. / 14.6 lbs
Size of plaque without frame
39cm x 38cm
Condition report:
This pietra dura plaque is in excellent antique condition. The inlaid stone surface is remarkably flat, entirely stable, and free from any rising pieces, loose elements with some minor losess. The invisible joins remain perfectly tight and seamless. The highly polished surface retains its brilliant, glassy, mirror-like finish with only the most negligible, light micro-scratching consistent with age. The piece is solidly housed in a robust, high-quality frame that securely supports its impressive 6.6 kg weight and is ready for immediate installation.
Additional dimensions information:
Height: 54 cm / 21.3 inch Width: 54 cm / 21.3 inch Depth: 7 cm / 2.8 inch Weight: 6.6 k.g. / 14.6 lbs
Wear Condition
Good
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We have a 14-day return guarantee for orders from individual sellers, within the UK and European Union. View full policy.
Additional Delivery Info from Seller
Estimated delivery time
Less than one week
Free collection available
Yes
Made to Last
The average lifespan of a Vinterior piece is 100 years, while modern flat-pack typically takes just 3 years to reach landfill. When you choose pre-loved, you can shop with confidence in quality, craftsmanship and longevity. With our top-rated customer service team and price match guarantee, there's no better way to shop pre-loved.
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Reviews
5.0
Based on 4 reviews
Wear conditions
Excellent
Shows little to no signs of wear and tear.
Good
May show slight traces of use in keeping with age. Most vintage and antique items fit into this condition.
Average
Likely to show signs of some light scratching and ageing but still remains in a fair condition.
Apparent Wear and Tear
Visible signs of previous use including scratches, chips or stains.
Please refer to condition report, images or make a seller enquiry for additional information.
Cancellations and Returns
Last updated: 12/02/2026
Clear, predictable protection for every pre-loved purchase.
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Damage on arrival is uncommon, especially for UK furniture deliveries.
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Returns are completed smoothly once the pickup is arranged.
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Once the seller receives the piece back in the same condition it was sent, we'll issue your refund to your original payment method.
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What your service fee covers
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14-day return guarantee
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Flat-fee return shipping on UK furniture
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Seller vetting
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| Order Value (£) | Fee (£) |
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| 0 — 49.99 | 2.75 |
| 50 — 99.99 | 5.50 |
| 100 — 199.99 | 11.00 |
| 200 — 399.99 | 21.00 |
| 400 — 599.99 | 30.00 |
| 600 — 799.99 | 40.00 |
| 800 — 999.99 | 50.00 |
| 1,000 — 1,499.99 | 55.00 |
| 1,500 — 1,999.99 | 60.00 |
| 2,000 — 4,999.99 | 82.50 |
| 5,000+ | 110.00 |
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