Travel with MARK / GIUSTI - Cosmati Mosaic Prints Story - Episode 2

Welcome to the second episode of #TravelwithMarkGiusti which focuses on the ancient mosaic masterpieces that inspires our prints. Internally, a passion for geometrics is inspired by the most famous Roman and Byzantine Mosaics on a journey from ancient Constantinople, via Venice to Ravenna through Rome and then back to London to the floors of Westminster Abbey.

When I launched my MARK / GIUSTI in 2009, I decided that my goal is to revive historic mosaics, particularly "cosmati" mosaics, through outstanding craftsmanship, innovative design, contemporary functionality, and the highest material quality. This meticulous work of art should never be forgotten, nor does the story of all who created it.

PRINTS ORIGINS

Ancient mosaic art dates back to at least 250CE and flourished in Roman and Byzantine times until modern days. In the 4th-11th century A.D., laying out marble of different sizes, shapes, and colours to show form and depth created these geometric patterns. This byzantine method was further developed in Italy from the 11th century onwards by using additional materials to create more complex design patterns. This was referred to as "cosmati", named after a Roman family, seven of whom, from Lorenzo to Jacopo, from Deodato to Giovanni, were skilful architects, sculptors, and workers in decorative geometric mosaics. Their mastery has been handed down in Rome for four generations through the 12th and the 13th centuries and, until now, fascinates eyes and captures emotions.

In the Middle Ages, their craft was already well beyond the boundaries of Rome, stretching as far as the High altar of London's Westminster Abbey, on which no less than 38 kings and queens have been crowned. Their name is commemorated in the genre of Cosmatesque work, often just called "Cosmati", a technique formed of elaborate inlays of small triangles and rectangles of coloured stones and glass mosaic set into stone matrices or encrusted upon stone surfaces.

PRINTS INSPIRATION

All prints used in the design of MARK / GIUSTI travel-inspired bags and accessories have been inspired by floor mosaics and intricate wall patterns borrowed from the architectural masterpieces of the Roman and Byzantine era. MARK / GIUSTI’s external look is minimal and shows a remarkable business imprint. Internally, a passion for architecture and geometrics is inspired by the most famous Cosmati Mosaics on a journey from ancient Constantinople, via Venice to Ravenna through Rome and then back to London to the floors of Westminster Abbey.

TIMELESS WORKS OF ART

MARK / GIUSTI’s first collection in 2009 was called “Bring Back Time”. Its name revealed my vision for reintroducing the beautiful Cosmati Mosaics into everyday life via our handcrafted pieces. Just as the Basilica have beautiful Mosaics for its floors and entryways, MARK / GIUSTI items display this art via the interior or the front detail of bags and accessories.

This ancient art has been revived and is the inspiration behind the MARK / GIUSTI brand. It has been incorporated into the design of every product resulting in an artistic masterpiece of timeless elegance, quality, and sophistication.

You can watch the Mark Giusti Mosaic Story Episode on our YouTube Channel and @WorldofMarkGiusti Instagram Page.

Love and Light
Mark

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