Egyptian Geometric

from $600.00
Size:

Details

  • Polychrome Stone Tesserae

  • 2024

  • Handcrafted by Rami Hann

  • Compact: 11.5 x 9 in (29 x 23 cm)

  • Classic: 17 x 13 in (43 x 33 cm)

Description

Ancient Egyptian glass, reimagined in stone.

The design is based off an ancient Egyptian glass mosaic from circa the 1st century B.C - 1st century A.D. A border decorated with yellow and black volutes, suggesting the waves of the sea, and green and white lines frame the main motif composed of eight square elements, arranged so as to create a checkerboard formed by ample, alternating, red, yellow, green, cobalt blue and white diamonds. These form a geometric pattern illusory to the human eye.

According to the latest studies, these plaques would have served as inlaid elements in the decoration of precious pieces of furniture (chairs, footrests, chests, altars, thrones, etc.), linen or papyrus cases, or even in wall adornments. Unfortunately, since materials such as wood are rarely preserved, no original pieces have survived up to modern times; the inlays are therefore known to us through small, isolated objects, whose chronology is often difficult to determine. In a few cases, they are still inserted into a plaster support; in other cases, they would have been directly inlaid in the wooden structure.

This mosaic’s balance of color and movement invites quiet reflection. The radiant, symmetrical design, paired with undulating black wave motifs, gives the piece a spiritual and hypnotic quality. The repetition of shapes and vibrant contrasts draw the eye inward, evoking a meditative rhythm reminiscent of ancient ritual or divine symbolism.

Details

  • Polychrome Stone Tesserae

  • 2024

  • Handcrafted by Rami Hann

  • Compact: 11.5 x 9 in (29 x 23 cm)

  • Classic: 17 x 13 in (43 x 33 cm)

Description

Ancient Egyptian glass, reimagined in stone.

The design is based off an ancient Egyptian glass mosaic from circa the 1st century B.C - 1st century A.D. A border decorated with yellow and black volutes, suggesting the waves of the sea, and green and white lines frame the main motif composed of eight square elements, arranged so as to create a checkerboard formed by ample, alternating, red, yellow, green, cobalt blue and white diamonds. These form a geometric pattern illusory to the human eye.

According to the latest studies, these plaques would have served as inlaid elements in the decoration of precious pieces of furniture (chairs, footrests, chests, altars, thrones, etc.), linen or papyrus cases, or even in wall adornments. Unfortunately, since materials such as wood are rarely preserved, no original pieces have survived up to modern times; the inlays are therefore known to us through small, isolated objects, whose chronology is often difficult to determine. In a few cases, they are still inserted into a plaster support; in other cases, they would have been directly inlaid in the wooden structure.

This mosaic’s balance of color and movement invites quiet reflection. The radiant, symmetrical design, paired with undulating black wave motifs, gives the piece a spiritual and hypnotic quality. The repetition of shapes and vibrant contrasts draw the eye inward, evoking a meditative rhythm reminiscent of ancient ritual or divine symbolism.

Creation

Mosaic‑making has a lineage spanning thousands of years. Early civilizations created stone tapestries to adorn homes, honor culture, and impress guests. Antico Contempo brings this tradition into the modern day, utilizing ancient techniques in both restored and contemporary designs.

Each mosaic begins with research into historic patterns, materials, and techniques to capture their cultural and visual language. We reimagine these compositions for a modern setting while honoring their original spirit. In collaboration with mosaic artists, historians, and designers, we create works that unite antique and contemporary sensibilities, rich with color and emotion.

The process starts with natural stone like marble, granite, limestone, onyx, and travertine—never colored or dyed. Hand‑cut into tesserae, every piece is arranged with patience, artistry, and mastery of ancient craft. After weeks, months, or even years of meticulous craftsmanship, each mosaic is completed with a refined frame, ready for effortless display.