Introduction
What is scagliola, also known as stucco marble?
Scagliola was born in Italy in the 16th century. From there it spread into Germany, Austria and Europe. It was much used as a replacement to marble and semi-precious stones used for the design of decorative and ornamental pieces in palaces and churches.
This delicate and refined material offers more freedom of execution than real marble and pietre dure.
Where marble and semi-precious stones are not available, one can “invent” the quality and quantity that is needed for a particular project.
Faux finishes and trompe l’oeil painted projects cannot match the effects found in scagliola: they lack the luster and the touch of “real” stone.
Scagliola is smooth, shiny and cold, very similar to marble to the touch and as durable. It does not pale or loose its colour. It is strong and hard and resistant. Its main advantage over marble is that it can be repaired and restored easily by an expert if chipped or damaged. It is also more accessible.
Scagliola can be crafted into any shape, large or small.
Its other attraction is that it is environment friendly because it is made of natural ingredients.
Adapted and translated from
Bernardo de Ezcurra, Argentinean architect
http://www.estudiobezcurra.com.ar/inicio.html
