The art of handmade inlaid woodwork is a time honored and noble Italian tradition. It is one of the crafts that Sorrento is known for and people visiting this part of Italy often seek out wooden jewelry boxes, tables and furniture. It's an ancient craft where each piece is created by highly skilled artisans, most trained by their families who have worked in and perfected this craft generation after generation. Some families go back more than 500 years.
When planning my trip to Sorrento, I knew I wanted to visit some of the wood shops and when I happened upon Augusta & Luca's workshop, I was immediately drawn to the pictures that depicted various views of Sorrento. One particular scene really spoke to me; it was an image that I had captured the day before with my camera, a view from the top of a cliff overlooking the Bay of Naples.
I was amazed at the detail, the various shades and colors of the wood that when pieced together created a natural shade of blue water and green trees on the cliff. This particular picture was unique in that the outer 1.5 inch edge was a light olive wood, rather than dark walnut like most, and on the inner edge was a mosaic border made with tiny pieces of various brown wood. Stunning! The combo of the outer frame and inlaid mosaic border really set the picture off. I couldn't take my eyes off of it.
Lauren, the store owner, explained that this piece was crafted by three members of her family. Her father-in-law; her husband, Augusta; and her son, Luca. All three had contributed to this piece of art which was her favorite and why it was hanging on its own in an archway.
Without hesitation, I purchased the picture. It perfectly capture what Sorrento looked like through my eyes and in the memories I would always savor. The lighter wood on the outside goes with the mid century modern aesthetic of my home so I knew it would be perfect.
Art is personal and finds it's way to the right owner, the person who will treasure and be the keeper of the piece. When I travel, I love purchasing art rather than trinkets. The art gives life to my home with images and memories of places I've visited and loved. I promised Lauren that her favorite piece found the right owner as I respect the work that went into it and will treasure it forever. read more