Italian Stone Mosaic Stuns “Bares für rares” Dealers,Sells for €5,000
A seemingly unremarkable souvenir brought to the German television show “Bares für Rares” turned out to be a remarkably well-preserved Italian stone mosaic,fetching a final sale price of €5,000 – far exceeding initial estimates.
An unassuming object brought to the popular German auction show by Andreas and his father, Gerd, quickly captivated experts and dealers alike. Initially, Andreas expressed little enthusiasm for the item, reportedly concluding it was something to “look, smile, sell.” Though, the object’s true value was soon revealed.
Host Horst Lichter initially perceived the piece as a painting, but expert Colmar Schulte-Goltz instantly identified it as a Pietra Dura stone mosaic – and a especially fine example at that. The technique, revived around 1900 by artist Giovanni Montelatici, involves crafting images from meticulously arranged pieces of hard stone, much like painting with customary brushes. Montelatici’s work gained recognition, even earning prizes at World’s fairs.
Lichter was particularly struck by the mosaic’s intricate detail, noting that even elements like wool threads, faces, and fabrics where rendered with astonishing precision using stones including lapis lazuli. Despite the transport box showing signs of wear, the mosaic itself appeared to be in pristine condition. The estimated value quickly climbed from €2,000 to €3,000, but the bidding woudl ultimately soar much higher.
The dealers were visibly impressed. “We crawled in with a magnifying glass, it almost leaves you speechless,” one dealer remarked. another described the mosaic as “crazy!” The competitive atmosphere drove the price upward, starting from €800 and quickly surpassing the estimated range. Ultimately,Fabian Kahl secured the mosaic for €5,000,a full €2,000 above the initial valuation. Kahl assured the sellers that the artwork would remain in private ownership.
The timing of the sale proved particularly fortunate for Gerd, who is planning a diamond wedding anniversary with his wife. The unexpected windfall will undoubtedly contribute to a particularly celebratory occasion, all thanks to a stone mosaic that initially appeared to be just a simple souvenir.
Why did this happen? A seemingly ordinary souvenir brought to the German television show “Bares für Rares” was revealed to be a valuable Pietra Dura stone mosaic. Who was involved? The sellers were Andreas and his father, Gerd. The key figures identifying and valuing the mosaic were host Horst Lichter and expert Colmar Schulte-Goltz. Dealer Fabian Kahl ultimately purchased the piece. What was the item? The item was a meticulously crafted Italian Pietra Dura stone mosaic, created using the technique revived by Giovanni Montelatici around 1900. How did it end? The mosaic sold for €5,000 to Fabian Kahl, exceeding the initial estimate of €2,000-€3,000, and will remain in private ownership. The proceeds will help Gerd and his wife celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary.
