An antique italian fine Art

Ceramic and majolica have a long history in Italy, dating back to around 6500 B.C. Italian majolica was first produced around 1350. The name “maiolica” comes from the Spanish island of Majorca where ships transporting lusterware from Valencia stopped on their way to Italy. The passion and beauty of Italy are incorporated in each ceramic work, prepared using original techniques passed down through generations of Italian artisan families and reflecting the several different colours of the various regions. Tuscany boasts one of the more ancient traditions, since the Etruscan epoch. The most prominent site in the region is without doubts Montelupo Fiorentino, a lovely village a short drive out of Florence. This was a very important centre for manufacturing ceramics since Medieval times (between the 15th and the 17th century), and the reason was for sure the very good quality of clay in the surroundings. Also during the Renaissance the Florentine merchants had an important role in the development of this activity as they increased the trade of the potteries throughout Europe. Certainly the trades were benefiting of the location, along the riverbanks of the river Arno, not only rich in clay but also an easy way (especially at those times) for transporting all the products anywhere. Nowadays the area is rich in artisans and small factories producing some of the most fine pottery art of Italy. For sure the main characteristic is that each piece of pottery is handmade. This means that each piece is absolutely unique and reflects the style of the artist. If you carefully examine a piece of hand painted pottery you might probably see a partial fingerprint, a small dot of paint or a slight smudge in the glaze. This actually add a value to the product, as it is the evidence of the handcrafted work. In Montelupo is also possible to find a very interesting museum of Ceramics, which includes an Archaeological Museum, a Contemporary one and a museum about the local Archeological areas. In the area there are as well many ceramic courses and pottery workshops available. Those who are interested in this fascinating art will be able to discover several important practical experiences, such as hand building, throwing, trimming and decorating, with the knowledge of the different techniques such as majolica, raku, high temperature, salt & soda, wood and so on. The Italian handcraft is particularly more enjoyable when spending a holiday in the warmth of a rural farmhouse in Tuscany. It may add something magical to a truly Italian experience.