Mosaics
New Mosaics and Mosaic Restoration
Mosaics have adorned walls and enhanced the architecture of public spaces for thousands of years. Throughout history, mosaics have been prized for their ability to simultaneously beautify and educate communities.
Different types of wall decorations were popular during various periods and styles of architecture.
From approximately the fourth through thirteenth centuries, the enduring art of mosaic was favored, and this era produced the extraordinary mosaic artwork of the Byzantine period.
For mosaic fabrication, a range of material choices is available for the “tessera,” the small pieces of marble, glass, stone or tile. “Smalti,” or colored glass, was prominently used in wall and vault mosaics of early Christian and Byzantine churches and it is often selected for modern-day mosaic compositions.
Mosaic is versatile and so durable that exterior installations can be undertaken, as well as interior. It can be applied to walls and floors. Mosaic can be designed as a sculptural display or as the focal point in courtyard paving.
Walls, shrines, and reredos or altar screens are beautiful applications of mosaic.
New Mosaics
Since ancient times, the enduring materials of marble, stone, terra cotta and mosaic have been cherished for the unique and enduring beauty they bring to architectural artwork.
The Byzantine period is especially noteworthy, when mosaic was widely used and prized for its ability to simultaneously beautify and educate worship communities.
Fifteen hundred years later, we continue to treasure these art forms, conserving historic artwork for posterity and creating new designs that are compelling from the dual perspectives of visual and liturgical design.
In every project, communication with the client guides the execution of the work. Research is also conducted, as needed, using the Studio’s extensive archives and collections.
Mosaic Restoration
Conrad Schmitt Studios has restored stone, marble, terra cotta and mosaic artwork throughout the United States and Canada. Such projects have included wall-mounted shrines and murals, floor installations and exterior applications. The Studio employs the finest materials and most appropriate approach in every endeavor.
Every restoration project is unique, based on a building’s history, wishes of the client, budget and numerous other factors. With careful study, dialog and consideration, the best approach for each project becomes clear. To initiate the conservation or restoration, an investigation is conducted into the existing materials as well as condition of the surface and substrate.
Experienced craftsmen are sent to the site to execute tests and make determinations regarding the proper approach. These cursory tests determine the most effective solvents, saturation periods and neutralizers; the products best suited for the conservation or restoration; and the working times required.
The result provides an indication of the outcome that can be expected. Larger test samples guide the cost estimation for the overall project and also serve as a visual fundraising tool.
