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A Large Italian Maiolica Charger, 19th Century

About the Item

Maiolica chargers are large, decorative ceramic plates that are part of the broader tradition of Maiolica pottery, a type of tin-glazed earthenware produced in Italy since the Renaissance period. These chargers are not just simple dishes but are considered works of art, often richly decorated with intricate designs, historical scenes, portraits, mythological motifs, or landscapes. The term "charger" refers to their size and function as serving platters or ceremonial plates, rather than everyday dinnerware. The process of creating Maiolica involves coating the earthenware piece with a white tin glaze and then painting it with metal oxide pigments. The magic happens in the kiln: during the firing process, the glaze reacts with the colors, transforming them into vibrant and glossy finishes that are characteristic of Maiolica pottery. This technique not only seals the ware but also provides a perfect, smooth canvas for the painter's designs. Maiolica chargers were particularly popular during the 15th and 16th centuries in Italy, where they were displayed in homes as signs of wealth and good taste, often adorning the walls or sideboards of the Italian nobility and wealthy merchant classes. The imagery painted on these chargers ranged from purely decorative, featuring motifs inspired by nature, to highly sophisticated scenes drawn from classical antiquity, the Bible, or contemporary literature. These narrative scenes were not only beautiful but also served as conversation pieces that reflected the owner's knowledge, values, and interests. Today, Maiolica chargers are highly prized by collectors for their beauty, historical value, and the skill evident in their creation. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the cultural, artistic, and social preoccupations of the Renaissance period in Italy. Collecting or owning such pieces connects individuals to a rich historical tapestry of art and craftsmanship, celebrating an era in which the decorative arts were highly valued and an integral part of societal and cultural expression.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 2.76 in (7 cm)Diameter: 24.22 in (61.5 cm)
  • Style:
    Renaissance Revival (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Ceramic,Hand-Painted
  • Place of Origin:
    Italy
  • Period:
    19th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    19th Century
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    CABA, AR
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5634239084782

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