Firenze Ceramics

Florence (Firenze) is one of the world’s most important art cities. Tuscan ceramics are very often associated with the name of Firenze, although with a couple of exceptions most of them were and still are manufactured in the neighboring villages, such as Montelupo, Lastra a Signa, Sesto, Cafaggiolo.
Florence was either the final destination of the luxurious Tuscan ceramics ordered by the noble families to decorate their magnificent villas, or the residence of rich merchants who exported Tuscan pottery all over Europe and beyond.

Firenze's artists

Marco e Vasco Bertini
Firenze - Toscana

Know more about Firenze

As one of the most famous and beautiful cities of Italy, Florence needs no introduction. And, since  it would be very reductive to try and summarize its history in one or two lines, we’ll just spend a few words to explain why Florence is known for the production of Tuscan ceramics, although not many pieces have been made within its walls.   

There is a general consensus that the Renaissance began in Florence, thanks to its social and civic peculiarities including its political structure and the patronage of its dominant family, the Medici.  They were able to bring Florence under their family’s power allowing for an environment where art and humanism could flourish.
The Medici’s were at the time wealthy bankers, and successful businessmen. Their most significant accomplishments, though, were in the sponsorship of architecture and art, including Tuscan pottery.
Their money was significant because during this period, artists generally only made their works when they received commissions and advance payments.

At the time, Florence was more than a city: it was a Republic and its territory was almost as big as modern Tuscany. The most  “industrial” activities, like pottery making, were run in the small villages situated around the walled centre.  Montelupo was probably the most famous for ceramics, but also Impruneta and Sesto are worth mentioning. The rich commissions paid by the Florentine families and the flourishing export attracted in the area many artists which significantly contributed to what is now called the “Florentine majolica”, but which is to be truthful Tuscan majolica.

 Below some highlights from our choice of Firenze ceramics:
  

Firenze pottery by Marco & Vasco Bertini	Firenze pottery by Marco & Vasco Bertini
Firenze pottery by Marco & Vasco Bertini	Firenze pottery by Marco & Vasco Bertini