Making majolica is a search for the right balance between mechanical and thermal stress and resistance to heat. Majolica holds in the heat radiated by the firebox and then disperses it continuously and evenly throughout the environment, in other words it acts as a true “thermal wheel” releasing pleasant warmth even after the fire has been shut down. The hand-made large Piazzetta majolica elements are the epitome of what can be achieved with the constituent raw material. The clay acquires unrivalled superior quality to become an expression of those who shape it with their hands.
MAJOLICA
It is only through professional experience handed down directly, that ceramic pieces with such a large surface area and particular shapes as those of Piazzetta can be obtained. The production of a majolica cladding requires time and skill: after the mix has been cast in the moulds and dried enough to take it out, the piece is hand smoothed and left to dry naturally. This procedure is then followed by drying at 60°, to eliminate all the residual moisture, and further firing at 1000° to make the ceramic stronger and to improve its capacity to conduct heat. The piece is then hand painted and put back in the kiln for the last phase. It takes between 12 and 15 days to complete the whole production cycle with around ten skilled persons involved.
