SimplyAbuDhabi XV

A stunning example is a 19th- century micromosaic necklace, which features five central medallions. Each medallion bears a micromosaic of floral motifs, crafted in Rome at the Scuola Pontificia in the second half of the 19th century. The floral subject is very rare, insofar as the preferred imagery at the time were views of the Eternal City. The art of the micromosaic arose in Rome at the end of the 18th century thanks to Giacomo Raffaelli (1753-1836), who invented a process for transforming incandescent glass paste into ultra- thin rods from which extremely tiny blocks could then be cut. This invention also coincided with the completion of the mosaic decorations in the Basilica of St. Peter, meaning that many mosaicists, now unemployed, began opening their own workshops where they created the first micromosaics. Their creations were highly regarded by the European aristocracy, and in this epoch of the Grand Tour, many of them travelled to Italy’s great cities of art, with a particular predilection for Rome. To bring out the most of the original gold settings in which the micromosaics are set, Dolce & Gabbana jewellers have placed Baroque-inspired filigree frames around them, embellished with emeralds and diamonds. The roses in Mediterranean coral and gold, the pearls and enamels, the aquamarine at the end of the adjustable chain, and the various floral motifs in gold and gemstones all serve to further enrich the composition.