Centerpiece in semiprecious stones made by Giovanni Ugolini, Florence, circa 1880

Centerpiece composed of a gilded bronze structure and nine small plaques masterfully crafted in Florentine mosaic by Giovanni Ugolini, one of the most important and renowned mosaic masters active in Florence in the second half of the 19th century.

The larger, slightly oval-shaped central plaque is decorated with a delicate inlay of semiprecious stones forming a bouquet of flowers, including peonies, bignonias, and pimpernels. Eight smaller, rounder plaques are arranged around the dominant motif, adorning this centerpiece with depictions of lively birds and floral arrangements.

The use of marble and semiprecious stones such as turquoise, lapis lazuli, malachite, jasper, and many others, expertly selected for their color tone, grain, and other characteristics, provides an extraordinary realistic rendering.

The expert selection of stones and their impeccable arrangement make this piece one of the most refined and extraordinary works created by Giovanni Ugolini in his Florentine workshop located at Via dei Fossi 11.

Excellent condition (possibly minimal signs of wear consistent with its age).

Centerpiece dimensions: Width 26 cm, Height 5 cm.

Historical Profile:

Originally an artisan workshop specializing in semiprecious stone and marble inlays, the Giovanni Ugolini company was founded in 1868 at Via dei Fossi 11. Giovanni, who learned the art of Florentine inlay at the Opificio della Pietre Dure in Florence, was a draughtsman and stain artist. Using the tones and nuances of the vast chromatic range of each semiprecious stone, he masterfully created still lifes, Tuscan landscapes, flowers, animals, and human figures. The business moved to its current location in 1900, but the artisan workshop, located in the adjacent rooms overlooking Chiasso degli Altoviti, remained active for a long time. Emilio, Giovanni's son, introduced this Florentine art to the world and received several awards for his splendid works in semiprecious stone inlay. Over the years, the shop has transformed into a veritable gallery, where you can admire masterfully decorated tables, paintings, boxes, and various other objects. Mrs. Maria Luisa Antonelli, the last great-granddaughter of Giovanni Ugolini, is the current owner of the oldest business in the sector.