Bas-relief Sculpture

Bas-Relief Sculpture – Marmorino

Marmorino (lime putty and crushed marble) can be used for both exterior and interior applications. Over time, it returns to its original limestone state, making it an extremely durable material. Thanks to its antibacterial and breathable properties, it is the perfect material for use in humid environments, particularly bathrooms and swimming pools.

The origins of Marmorino date back to the Greeks more than 5,000 years ago and later spread throughout Ancient Rome. It was revived during the Renaissance, particularly by the Venetian architect Andrea Palladio. It reached its peak during the Venetian Baroque, Neoclassicism, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco periods.

Bas-Relief Sculpture – Scagliola

Scagliola (animal glue and scagliola gypsum) is a very durable material, yet relatively lighter than Marmorino. Thanks to its malleable characteristics, it can be sculpted to achieve fine and delicate details. This material is sensitive to humidity and therefore should only be used indoors.

Scagliola was first used around the 1st century BC and later experienced a revival during the Renaissance as an effective substitute for expensive marble inlays. The technique flourished in Europe during the Baroque and Rococo periods, when exotic marbles and sumptuous stone inlays were popular in interior design, and bas-reliefs were a common decorative element.