A George III marble and scagliola fire surround, possibly Dublin, in the manner of Pietro Bossi comes up at Dreweatts fine furniture, sculpture and ceramics sale online in Berkshire on December 10. Dating to the last quarter of the 18th century the fireplace showcases refined inlay of scagliola, also known as ‘Bossi work’. The Italian plaster worker Pietro Bossi was active in Ireland during the late 18th century. Though few chimney pieces securely attributed to Bossi survive, he was renowned for the depth and graduation of colour he achieved and his innovative Neoclassical designs. ‘Scagliola’ (Italian for ‘chips’) is a technique that involves manipulating pigmented plaster, modified with animal glue, to resemble pietra dura inlays. This piece is estimated at £600-800 but it is safe to assume it will go higher.
UPDATE: This sold for £14,000 on the hammer, £17,500 with buyers premium.
