Cappero - set of 3 plates
Handmade, traditional ceramic plates from Sicily
€69.99
Italian Ceramics – Traditional Craftsmanship and Rustic Charm
“… and anyone who has once known this land can never be quite free from the nostalgia for it.” DH Lawrence
- Hand-painted in Italy
- Traditional designs & rustic charm
- Express worldwide shipping
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Italian Hand-Painted Ceramics: Bringing Timeless Italian Artistry to Your Home
Using the traditional techniques of Italian ceramics production, our range of colourful, decorative, hand-painted Italian ceramics is a celebration of everyday life in Italy. Each piece is lovingly painted by hand, making it totally unique.
Ceramic tiles from Italy are famous all over the world and create a distinctive impression in any home. Italian pottery tableware perfectly reflects the warmth and comfort of the Mediterranean lifestyle, creating a new connection with Italian culture or bringing back distant memories of an Italian ancestry.
Our Italian Ceramics Categories
About Italian Ceramics
What are the different types of Italian ceramics?
- Italian Ceramic Plates
- Italian Ceramic Bowls
- Italian Ceramic Cups
- Italian Ceramic Tiles
- Italian Ceramic Clocks
- Italian Ceramic Candlesticks
Italy's cultural richness is undisputed. From art and architecture to food and fashion, Italian craftsmanship has mesmerized the world for centuries. Among its many traditional arts, the craft of making hand-painted ceramics holds a special place. Rooted deeply in various regions of Italy, this art form has evolved over time, adapting to changing tastes while retaining its core ethos.
The Legacy of Italian Pottery
Pottery is one of the oldest crafts known to humanity. Its origin in Italy can be traced back to ancient times, with various regions contributing unique styles. In southern Italy, terracotta pottery adorned with simple designs was popular, while the Roman Empire favoured ornate motifs and detailed work.
While pottery served practical purposes, the Italian approach always balanced functionality and aesthetics. This characteristic sensitivity laid the foundation for the evolution of modern ceramics.
From Pottery to Ceramics: A Seamless Transition
Pottery primarily involves shaping clay and then baking it at high temperatures. Ceramics add an additional layer of finesse. Once pieces are shaped and fired, they are coated with glaze. This glazing not only adds a protective layer but also imparts a distinct sheen.
As pottery evolved into ceramics in Italy, artists began to explore intricate designs and patterns, giving birth to the rich tradition of hand-painted ceramics we know today.
Handcrafted Elegance: The Essence of Italian Ceramics
The real charm of Italian ceramics lies in their handcrafted nature. Each piece is a canvas telling the story of the region it originates from, the artist who painted it, and the era it represents. Faenza, in Emilia-Romagna, is famed for its blue-on-white designs, while Deruta in Umbria is known for Renaissance-inspired patterns.
Hand-painting ceramics is a skill passed down through generations. Artists spend years mastering techniques, colours, and historical motifs to keep these traditions alive.
The Process: From Clay to Art
Shaping the clay: Skilled potters shape the clay into plates, bowls, tiles, and decorative pieces.
First firing: The pieces are baked in a kiln at high temperatures (“bisque firing”) to harden the clay.
Glazing: A special glaze is applied to create a smooth, protective surface.
Hand-painting: Artists paint designs onto the glazed pieces by hand, often taking many hours per piece.
Second firing: A final firing fixes the glaze and colours permanently.
Modern Italian Ceramic Designs
While tradition is the backbone of Italian ceramics, modern artists are not afraid to experiment. Contemporary designs fuse classic patterns with modern aesthetics. Some artisans integrate abstract art, while others incorporate themes from everyday Italian life.
Our Ceramic Products
Our ceramic tableware features a range of brightly coloured, hand-painted Italian ceramic plates in different sizes. In our candlestick collection, you’ll find hand-made, hand-painted traditional Sicilian pottery candlesticks that capture the unique culture of Sicily.
We also offer a selection of beautiful hand-painted Italian ceramic tiles based on traditional designs—ideal as statement pieces in kitchens, bathrooms, or as decorative accents in any room.
Italian Ceramics: Q&A
Are your Italian ceramics hand-painted?
Yes. Our Italian ceramics are hand-painted by skilled artisans, so each piece is slightly unique and reflects traditional Italian craftsmanship.
Can Italian ceramics be used every day?
Most pieces are suitable for regular use, but we always recommend hand washing and avoiding sudden temperature changes to protect the glaze and artwork.
Are Italian ceramics dishwasher or microwave safe?
To preserve the hand-painted finish, we recommend gentle hand washing. We do not advise using handcrafted Italian ceramics in a microwave or dishwasher unless the product description specifically states otherwise.
Do you ship Italian ceramics worldwide?
Yes. We ship worldwide using carefully packed, tracked services. Gift wrapping and a personal message are available at checkout, and prices are not shown when sending directly to a recipient.
What Our Customers Say
"I am a big fan of Italian coffee, and was searching for a particular set of cups to serve it. I received a well packaged set of 6 cups and saucers in excellent condition. I was also surprised at how affordable they were. Italy Gifts Direct came through for me and they will for you too!"
Jim V. (USA)
"I have just received the goods I ordered from Italy Gifts Direct. The ceramics are so pretty. Everything came wrapped up very carefully and the delivery service was perfect with the goods arriving much quicker than I expected. I would certainly recommend Italy Gifts Direct to others and hope to use their services myself again before too long. Very many thanks."
Nancy B. (UK)
"Italy Gifts Direct is a wonderful place to shop. The quality of the merchandise is superb. The customer service is stellar. If you need help in choosing a gift they can guide you to the perfect choice. Shipping is fast. We were thrilled with the merchandise and personalized customer care. They are definitely rated five star!"
Deborah T.W. (USA)