Majolica

Most likely, this stand-out earthenware was named after the Spanish island of Majorca—said to be known once as Majolica—where these pieces were believed to have first been made.
As a port on the trade route connecting Spain and Italy with Islamic lands, the cultures commingled resulting in this new earthenware technique. What was at first an Italian tradition has now become synonymous with earthenware that follows in the footsteps of this technique and design form.

Each Majolica piece assumes a one-of-a-kind character. Majolica ceramicists create pitchers, tureens, serving dishes, oyster plates, decanters, and home decor pieces with styles ranging from elegant to whimsical. Most often, these ceramicists glean their inspiration from nature and aim to produce both useful and decorative pieces. This clay pottery form requires several steps to achieve its signature, sought-after vibrance. Artisans coat the piece with tin enamel to create a white base, then ornament with paints, and glaze as a final step. The result of this time-intensive creative process is colorful and dimensional pieces. These vibrantly-painted, vintage ceramics have maintained their beauty over centuries and continue to accent homes today.