Sorrento Music Boxes

The Art of inlay, (Marquetry), dates from the 15^th century and originated in Sorrento, a very beautiful town located in the bay of Naples.  The technique has remained unchanged over the centuries, Marquetry, or in Italian “Intarsia” is created by layering various sheets of woods (veneer), of different colors, fastened one on the top of the other.  The decorative pattern, whether a flower, a figure or a landscape is drawn on the top layer, the Craftsman using a jigsaw, meticulously cut the veneer, piece by piece, following the lines of the pattern.

Parts of the veneer, that would need shadowing, are then placed in a hot sand bath for 10 seconds or so, finally the veneer pieces are assembled, combining the proper colors, just like a “Puzzle”, to create the flower, figure or landscape represented by the original design.

The whole composition is then glued to the box previously built.  The box is sanded and then finished with a special lacquer.

In each box is mounted a musical movement.  A timeless heirloom, that will be treasured forever, has been created.

These boxes, including the musical movements, are of the highest quality.  Each box has been made using only woods of rare quality and beauty, such as Elm, white Poplar, Rosewood, Briar woods etc….