Featured Article
The Fine Art of Deruta Pottery
Deruta pottery started way back in the Middle Ages probably in the 13th Century or as early as 1290 in Italy. During that time, San Nicolo Church of Deruta pays a yearly compliment to its direct head; the apostolate of Perugia Cathedral. As tradition states, San Nicolo Church compensates not with money but with vases. This is because the ceramic industry in and around the area of Deruta is prevalent. At some point in 14th century, the community of Deruta was established as the capital manufacturer of pottery, ceramics, and majolica. In relation, the town even exported their quality products to other places in Italy due to its high demand in the market. In fact, more than 1000 ceramics were sent to St. Francis' hometown, the city of Assisi, in 1358. According to historical documents found, a local ceramic trader by the name of Cecce O'Alessandro sold a variety of pottery pieces to friars at each convent. The ceramics traded were small basins, white vases, green amphorae, yellow vases, small white jugs, and other stoneware. For this period, the order of souvenir potteries was so high.
In the 16th century, Deruta pottery experienced its golden era. This period became the industry's richest epoch because of the Renaissance's cultural revolution. However, Deruta pottery's business and trade soon declined in the later part of 17th to 19th century because of politicking. It also endured the country's economic crisis and intensive rivalry from Castelli d'Abruzzo (one of Italy's pottery hubs). Nevertheless, Deruta pottery soon gained its rebirth after the second half of the 19th century.
Some of the world famous Deruta pottery products include the Dragon Rooster Pitcher, Italian Dragon Jar, Blue Deruta-Style Plates, and the Red-Yellow Deruta-Style Dragon Mug.
The Dragon Rooster Pitcher is a rooster-shaped, wide beak pitcher which can also be used as a flower vase.
Copyright © 2005 New York Quality Pottery - NYQP.com. All rights reserved. |