Tuscany is one of the world's most celebrated wine regions, where vineyards, landscapes, culture, and tradition come together in a unique harmony. This artwork is inspired by the Black Rooster (Gallo Nero), the symbol of Chianti Classico, one of the most iconic wines produced in the Tuscan countryside.

According to legend, the Black Rooster became the emblem of Chianti after a challenge between Florence and Siena to define their borders. The Florentines' rooster, kept hungry and restless, crowed before dawn, allowing their knight to leave earlier and claim the territory of Chianti.

Throughout history, the vine, grapes, and wine have carried powerful meanings: rebirth, love, fertility, abundance, celebration, and the joy of sharing. In Greek mythology, wine was connected to Dionysus, the god of fertility and celebration, while in Christian tradition it became a symbol of the blood of Christ and sacrifice.

Beyond its spiritual meanings, wine has always represented human connection. It accompanies celebrations, friendships, and important moments, becoming a universal symbol of community, hospitality, and the pleasure of being together.

Used stones: Lingua d'oca, Rhodocrosite, Onix Afyon, Belgian Black Marble.

Year of composition: 2022

Size: cm 40x70

Artist: Leonardo Scarpelli

An original and authentic hand-made artwork created whith the antique technique of Commesso Fiorentino which is unique for Florence.

Commesso Fiorentino was born with Medici family, one of the most important families in Florence, in the second half of 1500.

The research of the stones is made by the mosaicist that must be able to choose from a rich and wide range of shades and veins: for this reason the artists personally search and collect the stones retracing the paths of the Medici researchers.

The processing starts by drawing the subject on adhesive paper, that is then cut into small tamplates that will be attached to the variegated shades of the stones following the visual instinct, the innate gift of the artist and his perfect knowledge of the materials. The shape of the little piece will be cut by hand with a chestnut, cherry or hazelnut wood bow and an iron wire that flows with abrasive powder and water. It creates a very precise and inclined cut to form the essential spaces to accommodate the glue, made by artisans with beeswax and pine tree resin. The different stones are previously glued onto a slate surface which acts as a support during the cutting and filing phase. The various pieces which form the composition are adjusted in shape with diamond files, glued together so that the joints are invisible, flattened and finally polished in order to create a perfect decorative harmony showing the colors of nature in all their radiance.