Maiolica
A type of pottery with a white, tin-glazed surface painted with bright colors.
What is it?
Maiolica is a technique for making pottery. First, the clay object is shaped and dried. Then it is dipped in a white glaze made with tin. This makes a smooth, white surface. Artists paint colorful designs on top. Finally, the piece is fired in a kiln. The colors become bright and shiny. Maiolica was very popular in Italy during the Renaissance. The basin you saw is a maiolica piece from Urbino.
Why it matters
Maiolica allowed artists to create detailed, colorful paintings on pots, plates, and basins. It was a way to show off skill and wealth. Many maiolica pieces tell stories from the Bible or mythology.
Where you've seen it
This list grows as you capture more maiolica objects.