Notes

Marquetry decorations are inlays that create a pattern using contrasting woods. This technique involves carving cavities into wood to set in other coloured woods or various materials like bone, ivory, horn or stone.

In the 14th century, the technique was rediscovered by the Italians and used on furniture or walls. Marquetry reached its peak in the 17th and 18th centuries before declining until the end of the 19th century. It returned as an important element of Art Nouveau and Art Deco.