Italian Plaster Gallery ~ Mantavano

This is the most unique finish I have ever seen. The exclusive technique dates back to the 1100's when architect Alberto Pitentino modified the flow of the river Mincino to create four artificial lakes around the city of Mantua (now called Mantova) to expand the size of the city and for defensive reasons. At the time, to wander outside the city was dangerous and people looked for raw materials as close to their city walls as possible. Well, unlike the limestone used by the people of Venice, the Mantua limestone created a more fluid lime resulting in a finish that had to be applied by brush and trowel. This finish was at its most popular during the Renaissance when the Gonzaga family used to be one of the most important European courts hosting artists like Pisanello, Mantegna, Rubens, and many others. It's like owning a small piece of Italian history in your home!