Majolica: An Evolutionary History

Origins of Majolica

The word “Majolica” derives from Majorca, the name of the Spanish trade center for exchange between Spain and Italy. It refers to earthenware dipped in white tin-opacified glaze, and then delicately painted; the traditional colors being green, brown and violet, blue, yellow, and orange

Ceramics of this description existed for centuries in Islamic countries before appearing in Italy; the first examples discovered from the 9th century in Baghdad. Through the spread of Islam and the Crusades, Islamic ceramics abounded throughout Europe; particularly in Spain. These are referred to as Luster ware, bisque ware that has been painted and covered with a film of metallic particles, giving it an iridescent appearance. Varieties in luster pigments depend on the type of metal used, and the quality of the salts and oxides to create them: yellow luster is obtained from silver salts and oxide, red luster from copper salts, and yellowish or reddish gold from a combination of copper and silver salts. A combination of the metals with natural resins is crucial to achieving the iridescent appearance.
Italy imported large quantities of luster ware from Spain between the 13th and 15th centuries. Italian ceramicists attempted to replicate the Spanish-Islamic style, but were unsuccessful in reproducing the luster effect at that time.
The earliest forms of Italian Majolica, appearing in the 13th century, are referred to as “archaic.” They were decorated in greens (copper) and browns (manganese) and depicted organic, plant-like forms and geometric designs. This early form of Majolica consisted mostly of jugs, bowls, cups, and pitchers and persisted until the beginning of the 15th century.
During the first half of the 15th century, designs began to reflect the Gothic style, and introduced blue (cobalt) imported from Persia and yellow-orange (iron and antimony). Stylized vines, rosettes, and vegetation themes continued, as did Islamic influences derived from imported carpets and cloths. While ceramics of this time remained highly functional, still used mostly for cooking and storage, more attention seems to have been paid to the overall appearance of the pieces.
In summary, Majolica culminated from the blending of Islamic techniques of tin-glazing with the tradition of Italian pottery.