Pietra Dura Easel Frame

A 19th-century easel frame featuring an oval Pietra Dura plaque of inlaid hardstone flowers against a black marble background. The plaque opens to reveal a hidden portrait photograph, combining the artistry of Pietra Dura with the sentiment of a keepsake frame.

Pietra Dura (Italian for “hard stone”) is a highly skilled decorative art that originated in Florence during the Renaissance. The technique involves inlaying finely cut and polished semi-precious stones—such as marble, jasper, malachite, agate, or lapis—into a base of marble or slate to create detailed images. The result is a smooth, jewel-like surface where the stonework forms naturalistic designs, most often flowers, birds, or landscapes. Each element is cut precisely by hand and fitted seamlessly, showcasing both artistry and technical mastery.