Byzantine Mosaic Appraisal

Framed Virgin Mary Mosaic Art

This item is a framed mosaic artwork depicting the Virgin Mary. The mosaic art is created from numerous small, irregularly shaped tesserae, predominantly in shades of brown, beige, and gold for the figure, with accents of red for drapery and green in the background. The gold tesserae, especially noticeable in the halo and parts of the drapery, are actual gold, though likely not thick, contributing a shimmering quality and depth to the piece. The overall construction appears to be careful, with tesserae laid to form the contours of the figure and her robes, suggesting a moderate level of craftsmanship. The figure of the Virgin Mary is rendered with a gentle, serene expression, her eyes dark and downcast, and her head slightly tilted. Her hands are joined in a gesture of prayer or reverence. The mosaic is housed within a substantial, ornate gilded wooden frame with a Baroque or Rococo revival style. The frame features intricate floral and scrollwork motifs carved or molded into its surface, with a primary outer border and a thinner, plainer inner border that directly abuts the mosaic. The gold finish of the frame complements the gold tesserae within the artwork itself, creating a cohesive and visually rich presentation. There are no obvious signs of significant damage to the mosaic, such as missing tesserae or cracks. The frame shows some minor wear consistent with its estimated age of approximately 30 years, likely in the form of slight rubbing or minor tarnishing to the gilding, but overall appears to be in good condition. No specific artist's signature or brand marks are visible on the front of the piece. The piece reflects a devotional or decorative art style often found in religious contexts or homes.