Italian ceramics can be found in many different forms, from terra cotta to earthenware to porcelain. And from that variety stems many cultures that can be represented in the rich history of Italian ceramics.
The tradition of Italian ceramics is as diverse as the many regions where the art form is celebrated, such as the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, Sicily and Umbria. Each region, once its own, separate entity, developed its own traditions when it comes to pottery, all unique and now stitched together in a single country made up of all of these once independent kingdoms.
For those who love the dynamic and vibrant designs and colors of Italian pottery, this art can serve as cherished pieces accenting a home. Consider these popular Italian ceramic traditions and the art of pottery they inspired.
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Majolica
This pottery, with a name that means tin-glazed earthenware, dates back to the Medieval Ages. Taken from Moorish Spain, this pottery later depicted tales from mythology, Roman history, and even the Bible. Ceramic artists began in the Renaissance to adorn the pottery with women. The artistic style known as istorie that relies on stories from Italy’s rich religious history continues today and can be found in more contemporary pieces, linking this Medieval art form to today’s art and featuring details such as geometric designs, leaves, and fish.
Puglia
Other Italian pottery traditions survive today, despite threats through the years to abandon them. For example, many Italian home shops offer pottery displayed with what appears to paint spatters and designs that are similar to Jackson Pollock styles. But these are uniquely Italian, from the region of Puglia deep in the heel of Italy’s boot. Early in the 20th century, this style was considered trash, a rustic artistic tradition that wasn’t considered chic or even art. They were considered more primitive, and in the 1920s and 1930s on their way out of style. But this tradition has emerged again in recent decades, celebrated for its authenticity and simple aesthetics. It’s not uncommon to find this pottery style celebrated now by Instagram users and trendy stores and resorts.
This Italian ceramic style, which experienced its resurgence in the 1960s, is most known for its colorful paint spatters of blue, red, orange, green, and purple.
Amalfi Coast and Tuscany
Enthusiasts of the beauty of Italian pottery also appreciate the traditions found in the Amalfi Coast and Tuscany. Known for its playful colors representing the bright hues of the Mediterranean, this pottery features a sort of charming display of regional creatures, including fish, hens, and other animals associated with the area. The style also features colorful depictions of flowers and fruits from the region, such as grapes, lemons, and pomegranates painted on hand-made dishes and decorative pieces.
The Tuscany tradition also includes other designs that date back to its earliest history, such as geometric shapes. While not as bright and vibrant as the colors of the Amalfi Coast style, the more subdued colors are still a beautiful variation on these pottery pieces. Much of this art continues to be produced now in smaller towns of the region, such as Certaldo Alto and Sesto Fiorentino, where ceramic dishes are still handcrafted and painted in this spectacular tradition.
Bringing the beauty home
There are many options for the self-described Italiophile who admires, appreciates, and celebrates the various ceramic traditions of Italy and the unique art history of its regions. Whether you seek the original works crafted by the artists who continue these traditions in the country or you appreciate pottery inspired by the Italian greats, there are many ways to bring this art to life in your home. It starts with a deep respect for the beauty and art that Italy offers in the form of truly unique pottery, both for practical use as dinnerware and for selection as a standalone work of art to be displayed and not used to serve.
