-Valtheris-

Using 3D InkJet digital printing, at micron-level precision and onto a quartz base of matching colour, Coante creates in Valtheris – part of the Exclusive series of the Arteo line – a design reminiscent of a breccia marble. The white background breaks into angular fragments of various sizes, outlined by dense, bold veins in charcoal grey and filled here and there with bands of brown with a mauve-burgundy tint (the manufacturer describes them as light brown); the product image is composed like a mirror, and the symmetry heightens its drama. Technically it is Coante quartz: water absorption below 0.07%, flexural strength above 35 MPa and a freeze–thaw coefficient KMf25 = 0.98, with no need for sealing. Polished or Leather, 15, 20 or 30 mm thick and in Jumbo or Medium slabs (330 × 164 or 310 × 152 cm), it calls for careful planning: because the pattern is dense, the position of each piece and the edges, ideally mitred, are best planned in advance. It belongs where a bold centrepiece is wanted: kitchen islands and countertops, bathroom vanity tops and wall cladding in kitchens and living rooms. Use a wet cloth and a neutral cleaner for cleaning; grinding and re-polishing of the printed surface are best avoided, and hot cookware always goes on a trivet.