Intarsia (in tar se 'a) n. - The term intarsia is specifically applied to a method of inlaying wood probably developed in Siena, Italy during the 13th century. It was derived from Middle Eastern inlays of ivory upon wood. It is differentiated from marquetry by the basic veneering process of the latter. Marquetry in fact was derived from the true wood inlay known as intarsia.   (Source: www.encyclopedia.com)