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Italian Majolica Tile | Florence, Cafaggiolo Tradition

Italian Majolica Tile | Florence, Cafaggiolo Tradition

Out of stock

A beautiful Italian majolica tile crafted in Florence and marked along the edge with “IL CAFFAGLIO • FIRE.” This distinctive side-stamping is characteristic of mid-20th-century Florentine workshops working in the Cafaggiolo tradition — a celebrated lineage of Tuscan ceramic artistry dating back to the Renaissance.

Its terracotta body has been fitted with a felted backing, allowing it to function as a decorative coaster or display tile, while also preserving the integrity of the surface.

Dimensions

- Length: 10.4 cm
- Width: 10.6 cm
- Terracotta thickness: Standard artisan tile thickness (approx. 1 cm)

Condition

- Very good vintage condition.
- Hand-painted glaze remains vibrant
- Terracotta edges show light age-related wear expected of authentic majolica
- Felt backing intact
- No cracks or structural damage observed

Special Characteristics

1. Design & Features
- Hand-painted majolica tile in the classic Florentine Renaissance revival style
- Deep cobalt, leaf green, golden ochre, and crisp white — traditional Tuscan majolica colours
- Circular foliate motif reminiscent of historic Cafaggiolo and Montelupo Fiorentino designs
- Side-stamped maker’s marks including “IL CAFFAGLIO • FIRE”, and production numbers
- Terracotta construction with a slightly rustic artisanal finish

2. Craftsmanship
- This tile reflects the work of a mid-century Florentine artisan studio, where small-batch production and hand-applied glazes were the norm.
- The side stamps identify its origin in the Florence ceramic district, known for reviving Renaissance techniques through the 20th century.
- No two tiles are identical, and minor irregularities speak to its handcrafted character.

3. Uses & Versatility
- Displayed as a small artwork on a shelf or wall
- Used as a trivet or coaster (thanks to the felt backing)
- Ideal for Mediterranean, Tuscan, or folk-art inspired interiors
- A unique addition to a ceramics collection
- Beautiful as part of a curated vignette or layered styling moment

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