Mosaics
A memorial portrait of Joseph F. Lizzadro, Sr. was commissioned in 1972. It contains more than 1,300 pieces of natural stone, precisely cut to fit together without the use of grout. Created by Bruno Lastrucci of Florence, Italy, the technique is called “commesso di pietra dura” (the joining together of hard stone). This technique is known as Florentine Mosaic.
Florentine Mosaics
Mosaics are generally created from colored glass with grout between each piece but Florentine Mosaics are unique. This art form has been practiced in Florence, Italy for hundreds of years. The Museum is fortunate to have several examples of Florentine mosaics.
Roman Mosaics
At first glance Roman mosaics look like paintings, but they are actually made of tiny bits of mosaic originated in 17th century Vatican workshops.
The mosaics in the Lizzadro Collection were created between 1780 and 1850.
Upon very close examination the individual pieces can be distinguished – grouted together in rows, like miniature bricks in a wall. The entire mosaic is set into a lead base.
