The evening promoted by Smaltochimica and dedicated to the presentation of the volume “Antiche Acquasantiere Domestiche e Devozionali in maiolica” was truly a special occasion, marked by warm participation and great interest from the audience. The event offered an opportunity not only to talk about ceramics and tiles, but also to retrace broader aspects of our history and culture, highlighting how much this territory owes to its artistic and manufacturing tradition.
Special attention was dedicated to traditional maiolica, the true centerpiece of the volume. Through the speakers’ contributions, the full richness of this ancient technique emerged: its ability to bring together functionality and spirituality, folk art and decorative refinement, faith and everyday life. The holy water stoups tell the story not only of domestic use, but of an entire imagery made up of symbols, colors, and gestures repeated over the centuries and handed down through the craftsmen’s manual skill.
Confindustria Ceramica provided a magnificent venue, perfectly suited to host such a rich and well-attended event. The exhibition setup, created in a contemporary style, surprised and captivated the guests: an elegant, minimal choice that enhanced the objects at their best, turning the collection into an emotional visual journey.
The speakers, Eng. Giuseppe Matricardi, Dr. Ivano Piccinini, Prof. Carola Fiocco and Prof. Gabriella Gherardi, showed great expertise and passion, guiding the audience on this journey into ceramic tradition. The moderator, Claudio Casolari, was impeccable in leading the evening with balance, clarity and outstanding professionalism.
The event concluded with the words of Ivano Piccinini, which resonated as both a wish and an invitation to preserve this tradition:“My wish is that people will once again learn to love maiolica and that the many artists and artisans who still today, with determination, work in their workshops may, through their creativity and technical skill, keep this maiolica ceramic art alive, an emblem for so many centuries of the art, taste and beauty of Italian craftsmanship.”
Browse the gallery and watch the full interview to relive the most memorable moments of the evening.
