Settee

Dateca. 1790

MediumCarved and gilded wood inlaid with reverse painted glass (to simulate lapis lazuli), metal mounts

DimensionsOverall: 39 x 80 in. (99.1 x 203.2 cm)

ClassificationsFurniture

Credit LineGift of A. Everett Austin, Jr., 1955

Object numberSN1800

This sette and the other pieces in the set come from a large suite made in Sicily in the late 18th century, where it was fashionable to adorn furniture with reverse-painted glass to imitate semi-precious stones. The entire set bears the monogram PPL, but these initials have yet to be securely associated with any known patron. The incorporation of glass into the design means they are extremely fragile, and were certainly made for display rather than for regular use.

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