The Arts of Marquetry & Parquetry
With 30 years of experience sourcing vintage items and antiques of the highest caliber and craftsmanship, at Jean-Marc Fray Antiques we believe nothing epitomizes the beauty and importance of a piece quite like the material itself. Each piece is chosen for the rich aesthetic effect and time-tested quality of the craftsmanship. Procured from across France and Italy, our collection of furniture, lighting, and art is a treasure trove of materials and expertise. Each grain of wood and carefully hand-wrought detail brings a lavish history and provenance.
This week, we are showcasing the arts of marquetry and parquetry. Each is a detailed, intricate craft honed by skilled craftsmen and brings out both the beauty of the wood and the artistry of the work. Please enjoy a glimpse into the history and dedication of this decorative art!
What is Marquetry?
While both marquetry and parquetry are decorative techniques in woodworking, marquetry is specifically used to create pictures in the wood. Often described as painting with wood, marquetry depicts many images from figural to still life settings. The intricacy of this craft often means it is used in smaller areas of furniture design or art and is a focal point.
The term marquetry has origins in French – the word marquetery translates ‘to variegate.’ This refers to the enhancement of the image through us of different, contrasting woods and colors. Relying heavily on these contrasting woods, each piece is laid tightly together to create the composition. Other material is often used as well, including ivory, bone, and pearl.
Marquetry is very labour intensive and requires a high level of craftsmanship. For this reason, and the use of many materials, it has long been considered an extremely important skill in wood working. Due to the cost and time, marquetry has long been seen as a status symbol and a depiction of the luxurious life lived by the owners of a piece. It was also common for monograms to be incorporated into marquetry designs. Jean-Henri Riesener, Marie Antoinette’s famous cabinetmaker, would often include her initials within the design of her furniture.
What is Parquetry?
While marquetry creates pictures, parquetry creates patterns in the wood. The geometric patterns are often repeating and linear. This work has historically been used in architectural features, wood panelling, and more. It is also more regularly used with fewer types of wood and relies on the contrasting grain. This focus on material creates beautiful patterns within one color. Yet, many examples of parquetry employing multiple woods do exist. Though techniques to craft parquetry in a more cost effective way do exist, high quality furniture with parquetry work utilize the same techniques and time as marquetry.
A History of Marquetry & Parquetry
The mosaic techniques of both marquetry and parquetry date back many centuries. Found within the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum as well as Egypt, we have evidence of art work deploying these crafts. Yet, revival in the 16th century in Italy brought the popularity back to Europe. Both marquetry and parquetry have continued to flourish in furniture and architectural design since.
One of the first masters of marquetry in furniture design is André-Charles Boulle. The beginning of a dynasty of “ebenistes”, Boulle created marquetry using bronze, tortoiseshell, and beyond. His scrolling patterns and designs are the basis for Boulle marquetry, named after him. As the cabinetmaker to King Louis XIV, Boulle was described in his day as “the most skillful artisan in Paris.” While few of his original pieces still exist outside of elite museums, his name and techniques are still used by woodworkers to this day.
Marquetry & Parquetry at Jean-Marc Fray
As one of our favorite displays of craftsmanship, we cannot pass up the opportunity to showcase marquetry or parquetry at our gallery. Most recently, both techniques can be found in these stunning Louis XVI buffets. The floral detailing and intricate design make each one-of-a-kind piece so striking. Our gallery regularly brings in beautiful tables with parquetry as well.
Interested in adding some quality craftsmanship to your home? Please contact us to learn more about our available pieces!
