The displayed works are accomplished through the use of ancient pictorial techniques passed on  by Cennino Cennini in his “Book of Art” (1370-1440).  Each icon or biccherna is painted on ligneous supports of poplars, linden, cherry wood and chestnut, wisely left to season for many years before their use as painting panels. 

In several cases, these boards are actually constructed with wooden parts dating several centuries,depending on the stock that I am able to buy through the carpenter who works for me. On a particular occasion, for example, he was actually able to craft a board from cutting a wood beam dating probably to the XVIth century.

The selection of the choicest materials is of the utmost importance in order to accomplish a superb level of craftmanship in the work I do. In order to make the paint, powdered pigments: blu lapis lazuli ( lapis lazuli is a semi-precious gemstone that is deep blue in color but with a hint of purple and with flecks of gold pyrite. Is extract by grinding by hand produces a brilliant blue pigment. In the Middle Ages and Renaissance is used to paint the most valuable part of the mantles of the Virgin Mary), verdigris, cochineal red, yellow saffron, cinabrese and sinopia, a red earth, and dark as well as light ochre, etc,.

Rubber and resins of natural origin mixed with egg yolk are employed – egg yolk tempera.

The gilding and burnishing:

The gildings are accomplished through the use of leaf of pure Gold 23 3/4 - 8 karat using the a guazzo technique, with previous spreading of a layer of bole Armenian plaster over a stratum of  a preparation composed of plaster (gesso sottile) and glue for gilders (rigorously exempt  of chemical and synthetic products). 

The painting methods described by Cennini are followed in order to preserve the whole style and spirit of the original works. The decorative motifs (diadem for saints and gold drapery) of the halos and frames are entirely accomplished through the use of instruments used by goldsmiths, called burins (stamping and engraving) or dies, which I order from Florentine artisans. 

On each page, you will find a list of the works that we are able to supply you with. We are also able to provide customized works upon request.

As far as inquiries for large paintings are concerned (ie. 2 x 3 meters), please keep in mind that such items require a considerable amount of work, usually anywhere from six months up to one year. Such oversize requests should then be submitted plenty of time ahead with respect to the date you would like your painting to be finished and ready for delivery.

Working on commission

Information and purchases: info@bottegadartetoscana.it