Marquerie

Marquerie, also sometimes spelled Marquetry, is a decorative technique where pieces of veneer (thin slices of wood or other materials) are applied to a structure to form ornamental patterns, designs or pictures. These veneers are glued onto a carcass. The technique is often used in furniture decoration, flooring, and other decorative arts.

Marquetry differs from inlay, which involves cutting recesses in a solid piece of material and fitting other materials into them. With marquetry, the entire surface is generally covered with the veneer.

Common materials used in marquetry include different types of wood, bone, ivory, shell (tortoiseshell, mother-of-pearl), metals, and even stained straw. The choice of material depends on the desired effect and the skill of the marquetry artist.

The origins of marquetry can be traced back to ancient civilizations, but it became especially popular in Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries. Skilled artisans and craftsmen, often associated with royal courts and wealthy patrons, developed intricate and elaborate designs. Different regions developed their own styles and techniques.

The process of creating marquetry involves several steps, including selecting and cutting the veneer pieces, arranging them into the desired pattern, and gluing them onto the substrate. The finished surface is then sanded and polished to reveal the intricate details and smooth texture.