The intricate journey of hardstone carving across European borders

Art of the Royal Court - Carrying Pietre Dure over the Alps - Part 3 of 6 · 9:58 · Video: The Met · Watch at the source

In short: Discover how a specialized Italian craft transformed into a prestigious luxury for European royalty. This lecture explores the migration of pietre dure, tracing its evolution from 16th-century workshops to the grandest palaces on the continent.

The presentation examines the tradition of hardstone carving, known as pietre dure, which originated in Italy during the 1500s. It highlights how this meticulous technique spread across Europe, becoming a hallmark of aristocratic taste and courtly life.

The curator explores the logistical and artistic significance of these objects, specifically focusing on their presence in various European palaces. The lecture provides essential context for understanding how these durable yet delicate works of art were valued and moved as symbols of status.

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