We have a number of French majolica in the store, so we thought you might be interested in learning a little more about these collectibles:

Adored by Victorians, majolica pottery is a collector’s dream. Those who admire it, find it hard to resist the beauty and craftsmanship of a majolica piece.

To produce majolica, a potter will mold a lump of clay and place it in the open air to dry. Once this process is finished, the clay will undergo a method known as Biscotto or the “bisque stage”. This is where the clay is placed in a kiln and fired to a temperature of 750 degrees. Once the piece is fired, the bisque is dipped in a Smalto, allowed to harden, and then hand-painted.

While majolica imposters do exist, true French majolica can be identified by either its markings or by color–teals, greens, and reds are most common. Themes were often nature-inspired often with  leaves, fruit, and floral decorations.

And once you have a piece of your own, majolica begs to be displayed and admired. Here is a lovely way to showcase your majolica as featured  in  Vogue Living, Australia.

By Jessica Scheufler