I always have wondered about my love for mosaics and my facination with all the pieces fitting together to make a design. I t makes me happy to be challenged with the different sizes I clip and cut to fit. This morning I looked over at the library table my grand father had made in the 30's which is one of my prize possessions. It was always in the entry hall of my grandparents charming home. This type of work is called Marquetry, which is French for inlay work.Dating back to the 16 and 1700's. I call mosaic work Pique assiette French for "stolen plate". My grandfather was a carpenter and in later years a contractor. He made many of these tables, during the depression as a young family man. He'd work in the ship yards and then home to his workshop to do his beautiful Marquetry.
I am so fortunate to have this table and several others he created. This beautiful table isthe largest of his pieces and completely had made. Every piece cut and set piece by piece. Every type of wood was used. The sides, bottom, all, is covered with Marquetry.
So, I know now why I love piqueassiette and love the challenge. I think I'll go make something!
4 comments:
Talent runs in the family... I remember seeing marquetry tables and boxes when I was a tiny tot.
xoxcolette
Hi Colette! Yes, it was very popular at one time. This type I think so unusual. Painstaking!!
Yes, I remember the boxes too!
You're a sweetie, xx Susan
Such an interesting post. I have seen many exquisite pieces of furniture such as you now own...and they are totally fascinating!! I can't imagine the patience and skill it takes to create such a masterpiece. You really are lucky to have this family heirloom...and yes you are continuing the family talent with your mosaics.....
Hi Sharon, yes, I am so lucky to have it and yes, I just can't imagine that kind of patience.There are 7000 hours in the table......imagine spending 7000 hours on an art piece. He was some artist!!
Post a Comment