The art and industry of stucco decoration in Europe 16th-18th century

Stucco decorations have traditionally been studied mainly for their artistic and formal qualities, but little attention has been given to the professional role of the stucco makers and to their technical skills.

From the 15th to the 18th century, many stucco artists from the areas between present-day Canton Ticino and Lombardy worked throughout Europe, bringing a wealth of knowledge that they adapted from time to time to different contexts. 

This collection of essays highlights the role of the stucco makers in construction sites and their particular technical skills, which enabled them to create magnificent decorations in imitation of marble from different locally available materials.

Each contribution examines these topics with an interdisciplinary approach, considering art and social history, technical art history and material sciences.

The volume includes a bilingual glossary of materials, techniques, and tools related to stucco art.

Texts in Italian, English