Maiolica

From the late mediaeval period to the sixteenth century the pottery of Italy shows a most lively and decorative line of development. The earliest wares represented in the exhibition are strongly and simply decorated in copper green with brown outlines. These were excavated in Orvieto in central Italy early this century and although they are known to scholars, many have not been shown in recent times. More familiar are the richly decorated maiolica pots from Renaissance pharmacies and the fine dishes decorated by Renaissance artists with stories from Ovid, lively grotesques and other subjects. The treasures are drawn from the Gallery’s permanent collection.

Sourced from: National Gallery of Victoria January – June 1999 What’s On, National Gallery of Victoria, 1999