Intarsia

Intarsia is the art of pictorial inlay using wood, metal, stone & ivory. 

The term intarsia is specifically applied to a type of inlaying probably developed in Siena, Italy, in the 13th century and derived from Middle Eastern inlays of ivory upon wood. This art was widely practiced in Italy from c.1400 to c.1600. 

The popularity of intarsia declined thereafter, although some works in this medium were still produced. Designs included pictorial scenes and conventionalized scrolls, arabesques, and geometric forms.

Intarsia is now enjoying a new found popularity among Lapidaries, Jewelers and their customers.