What Does Intarsia Say? Materiality and Spirituality in the Urbino Studiolo ☆

A groundbreaking analysis of the Urbino Studiolo reveals that intarsia, a form of wood inlaying, plays a pivotal role in infusing spiritual meaning into the secular palace of Federico da Montefeltro. The study demonstrates that the intarsia's materiality and motifs align with those found in ecclesial settings, creating a contemplative atmosphere within the studiolo. This finding refines our understanding of the city depicted on the eastern wall as a focal point for spiritual progression, guided by the intarsia-encrusted path. The research employs close examination to uncover the specific visual tradition informing this representation, offering new insights into the interplay between materiality and spirituality in Renaissance art.

Aviel, M. (2025). What Does Intarsia Say? Materiality and Spirituality in the Urbino Studiolo ^☆. Renaissance Studies, 40(4), 712–738. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/rest.70023