Collection: Italian history

The History of Italian Porcelain and Ceramics – Mastery and Tradition

Italy has a centuries-old tradition in the production of ceramics and porcelain, with production centers that have marked the history of art and craftsmanship.

The Origins: Renaissance Majolica

Already in the Middle Ages, Italy was a point of reference for the production of majolica, glazed and colorfully decorated ceramics. Cities such as Faenza, Deruta, Gubbio and Urbino became famous for their creations, influenced by Arab and Hispano-Moresque techniques. Italian Renaissance majolica, with its mythological scenes and elaborate decorations, was appreciated in the European courts.

The Great Manufactures of the 18th Century: Italian Porcelain

In the 18th century, with the discovery of hard porcelain in Europe, Italy also began its own production of the highest level. Among the most important manufactures:

• Capodimonte (Naples, 1743) – Founded by Charles of Bourbon and Maria Amalia of Saxony, it stood out for its soft and finely decorated porcelain, famous for its applied flowers and pastoral scenes.
• Ginori (Doccia, Florence, 1735) – Founded by Marquis Carlo Ginori, this factory perfected hard porcelain, producing extraordinary pieces inspired by classical and baroque art. Ginori became one of the most prestigious porcelain houses in Europe and is still synonymous with excellence today.
• Royal Factory of Naples (1771-1806) – Commissioned by Ferdinand IV of Bourbon, it was the continuation of the Capodimonte tradition and produced works of great value until its closure.

The Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries: Innovation and Style

In the 19th century, artistic ceramics spread further with the production of Laveno , famous for its majolica and porcelain for everyday use, and other companies such as Richard-Ginori , which dominated the market with its mix of classicism and modernity.

In the twentieth century, Italian ceramics continued to evolve with contemporary design and art, thanks to masters such as Gio Ponti , who gave new life to Richard-Ginori with an innovative and refined style.

Radisa Gallery and the Passion for Author Porcelains

At Radisa Gallery, we celebrate this long tradition by selecting vintage Italian porcelain and ceramics, from 18th-century masterpieces to the most sought-after pieces of the 20th century. Each object is a testimony to elegance, craftsmanship and history, ready to tell its past in a new home.