Faustino Corsi’s collection, now housed in Oxford, includes a stone he described as "rarissimo." This stone, one of the rarest and most significant in the world, has a rich and captivating history. Known as Granito Verdi della Sedia di San Lorenzo or Lapis Ophites, it originates from Wadi Umm Wikala, near Wadi Semna, in Egypt's Eastern Desert. A distinctive green granite, it was highly prized for its decorative qualities, particularly due to its striking colour.
The stone’s name is derived from its use in the inlays of the throne in the Church of San Lorenzo fuori le Mura in Rome. This church, one of the seven pilgrimage churches of Rome, is dedicated to Saint Lawrence. The throne, positioned in the church's apse, was constructed in the 13th century and stands as one of the most significant examples of medieval art. The central panel of the throne’s backrest, made of Granito Verdi della Sedia di San Lorenzo, highlights the value placed on this stone during the medieval period.
Granito Verdi della Sedia di San Lorenzo has also graced other prominent works, such as the tomb of Pope Pius VII in St. Peter’s Basilica, and it was used in the Royal Palace of Naples. Its rarity, however, has made it difficult to obtain. Found only in a few sites in Egypt’s Eastern Desert, the stone’s extraction and transport are challenging, further adding to its desirability among collectors and art connoisseurs.
In conclusion, Granito Verdi della Sedia di San Lorenzo is a rare and invaluable stone with a profound legacy in art and architecture. Its distinctive green hue and scarcity have cemented its place as a highly sought-after material, with its inclusion in such significant works attesting to its immense cultural value. For those fortunate enough to possess a piece, it is nothing short of a treasure.
