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Faenza Ceramic Wall Shelf with Shell and Lady, Early 20th Century
€250Bid from €225
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Hand-painted Faenza ceramic wall shelf, with a shell and a lady, made in the early 20th Century. Diam. 18 cm, Diam. 12 cm, H 22 cm.
Antique ceramic shelves are fascinating objects that combine functionality with the aesthetics of the past. They represent a piece of furniture and craftsmanship history, and can add a touch of elegance and authenticity to any setting. They were often made of maiolica or porcelain, materials that feature detailed decorations and vibrant colors. Craft techniques such as hand-painting, carving, and glazing give uniqueness to each piece. From Baroque to Art Nouveau, passing through Neoclassical, antique shelves reflect the artistic styles of different eras. Floral motifs, landscapes, mythological figures, and scenes of daily life are common in their decorations. Important production centers include Italy (Castelli, Faenza, Naples), France (Limoges), Germany (Meissen), and Spain (Valencia).
Faenza ceramic is one of the most important and ancient Italian ceramic traditions, originating from the city of Faenza in Emilia-Romagna. Its renown is such that the term "faience" in French and "faience" in English have become synonyms for maiolica, testifying to its international influence. The first ceramic kilns in Faenza date back to the 1st century BC, but it was during the Renaissance that the city reached the peak of its ceramic production, becoming a center of excellence. Faenza ceramic is predominantly maiolica, a tin-glazed earthenware, meaning it is coated with an opaque glaze based on tin oxide, which provides a bright white background, ideal for pictorial decoration. Even today, Faenza ceramic is produced using artisanal techniques handed down through the centuries. The process includes shaping the clay, the first firing to obtain the "bisque," glazing, preparing the design with a pounce (a perforated cardboard stencil), brush decoration with metal oxide-based colors, and the final firing with a transparent glaze to give brilliance.
Over the centuries, several distinctive decorative styles have developed:
"Pavona" or "Peacock Feather" Style, a 15th-century motif inspired by the peacock's feather eye.
"Persian Palmette" Style, stylized floral decorations of Oriental influence (15th-16th century).
Istoriato Style, complex narrative scenes, often drawn from biblical, mythological, or literary episodes (16th century).
Compendiario Style, more rapid and essential decorations (second half of the 16th century).
Berrettino Style, a monochrome blue background with white or yellow-orange decorations (16th century).
Carnation Decoration, a stylized floral motif, typical of the 18th century and still very popular today.
Raffaellesche Decoration, motifs inspired by Roman grotesques and the works of Raphael (17th-18th century).
Additional details:
- Brand: Ceramica di Faenza
- Material: Maiolica
- Period: Primi Novecento
Specifications
CategoryDecorative ObjectsConditionGoodColorsMulti ColorMaterialCeramicSeller locationMilano, ItalyDelivery optionsDelivery or pickup
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ProfessionalMilano, ItalyOn Whoppah since July 2026 • 0 sales