A George III marble and scagliola fire surround, possibly Dublin, in the manner of Pietro Bossi, last quarter 18th century, the fluted frieze with inlay of laurel swags and a ribbon tied trophy, flanked by conforming projecting jambs inset with simulated Siena, exterior measurements 152cm high, 176cm wide, interior measurements 122cm high, 115cm wide Provenance: Private Collection The present fireplace showcases refined inlay of scagliola, also known as 'Bossi work' after the Italian plaster worker Pietro Bossi, who was active in Ireland during the late 18th century. Though few chimney pieces securely attributed to Bossi survive, he was renowned for the depth and graduation of colour he achieved with his inlays and his innovative designs in the fashionable Neoclassical style. 'Scagliola' (from the Italian for 'chips') is a technique that involves manipulating pigmented plaster, modified with animal glue, to resemble pietra dura inlays in marble and ornamental hard stones. Initially the process of scagliola, first used by the Romans but revived in Italy during the 16th century, was used an an economic alternative to more costly marbles. A chimney piece in the manner of Bossi with elaborate inlay of leaves was sold at Bonhams, Fine Furniture, 15 June 2011, lot 83 (£72,000) Another appeared at Christie's South Kensington, 7 June 2005, lot 113 (£24,000)