Although there are countless methods of ornamental design, decking out a room or an entire home in slabs of marble may not be financially viable for everyone. Scagliola, on the other hand, is a cost-effective method of ornamental design that is just as beautiful as its true-stone counterpart. Here is the origin of the process as well as some information on its modern-day examples.

How Scagliola Was Developed & How It’s Used Today

Scagliola Basics

Scagliola is an ornamental design method used for creating columns and other pieces of architecture. The finished products resemble marble and semi-precious stones but don’t have the high cost of those materials.

Scagliola isn’t a single substance. Instead, it is a technique using composite material made from gypsum or selenite, binders, and varying pigments to give it distinctive colors. These brilliant hues can be veined throughout the material, giving it a gorgeous, marble-like appearance. Alternatively, intricate patterns and designs can be carved from a scagliola slab and then filled with other, similar materials to create beautiful decorative elements. 

Scagliola Throughout History

Scagliola has been used in design for centuries with some mixtures of the material being traced back to ancient Rome. Later in history, the technique again gained popularity during the Renaissance and was used in architecture throughout the Baroque and Rococo eras. 

Those with an eye for architecture can spot the signature beauty of scagliola in many different buildings. One of the earliest British scagliola elements can be found in London’s Ham House; a gorgeous fireplace was elegantly created using the method. Other examples can be seen in grand estates such as Buckingham Palace and various churches, capitol buildings, and courthouses throughout the United States, including the Shea’s Performing Arts Center in Buffalo, NY.

If you’re looking to add a beautiful architectural element to your home or business, the professional plastering contractors of Old World Plastering in Cincinnati, OH, are ready to help. From plaster repairs to breathtaking ornamental design, the company’s team uses modern technology combined with old-world techniques to provide high-quality work. Owner Greg Colina is on hand for every job to ensure the highest level of production standards so you’ll be satisfied and impressed with their work. Visit their website for a full list of services, or call (513) 481-1122 to speak with a friendly representative today.