Marmortondo as a table top in Pietra Dura technique, 17th-18th Century. Photo Hampel

Strong outer edge in brown, white veined marble is black slate inlay depicting a winged skull with laurel wreath in Giallo Antico marble, green, white and dark brown marble.Surrounding the inscription in capital letters "MEMENTO HOMO Quia PULVIS ES ET IN pulverem REVERTERIS" (Remember man that thou art dust and to dust will return).Inner core of wood. Estimate € 7000-8000

Hampel. Friday, 23 march 2012. http://www.hampel-auctions.com/