True Majolica is made from European red clay.  After drying and a first firing, the ceramics are dipped in a white coating over which the designs are hand-panted, freehand with lead free mineral glazes.  The pieces are fired again, which brings out the lustrous, jewel-like colors of the glazes.

Deruta, Italy is considered to be the world capital of "maiolica" or majolica (Italian for enameled ceramics).  Deruta is a  picturesque medieval hillside town in Umbria, near Perugia, and has been known for centuries for its beautiful and finely crafted pottery.  After more thean 700 years of continous production, Deruta cermaics are admired around the world - the local clay is ideal for ceramic production.

The pinnacle of  majolica production came towards the end of the Renaissance period (1550 - 1600).  Ceramic production was considered on a level with painting and sculpture.  Deruta majolica has a distinctive flamboyance.  One of the highly characteristic local styles that is a trademark of Deruta pottery is the "Raffaellesco" Dragon design created by Raphael.

The town boasts an important state school of ceramics and has over 200 ceramiche workshops, many of them retail their own wares, and there are a number of other retail shops which display and sell pottery products as well.  The town is also a center for local farming and agriculture.

Since all of the pottery is hand-made and hand-painted there will be variations in individual items.  Each piece is a unique work of art to be treasured for years to come. All the patterns compliment each other and can be mixed and matched to create your own personal decorating statement.  The pottery is food and dishwasher safe, but should not go in the microwave.
    Visit Gilded Lime for a great selection of Majolica pottery.