Deruta Pottery History: Medieval Ceramics and the Archaic Style in Italy

The documented history of Deruta pottery begins in the Middle Ages. One of the earliest records, dated 1290, shows that the Church of San Nicolò in Deruta, which was under the control of the cathedral chapter in Perugia, paid its yearly tribute in pottery. That shipment included twelve amphorae, twelve smaller amphorettes, six lavandari or small basins, fifty jugs, and one hundred gavate. While we do not know how far back this tradition went, it proves that ceramic production in Deruta was already well known, firmly established, and a vital part of the local economy.

In 1976, researcher Orietta Boini uncovered a significant 1336 document in the Perugia State Archive. Written by Deruta notary Giovanni Contucci, it shows that the potters’ guild was active and successful, maintaining strong connections with the Perugia College. More proof comes from the Franciscan archive in Assisi, where a 1358 record describes a potter named Cecce d’Alessandro selling hundreds of ceramic pieces to the friars at the convent. The order included yellow vases, white vases, green amphorae, small white jugs, small basins, and other earthenware, with the friars also paying for transport from Deruta.

Determining the exact quality of medieval ceramics from Deruta is difficult. Surviving pottery fragments suggest they were similar to other central Italian ceramics of the time. Orvieto was likely the main Umbrian center for archaic style pottery, producing both simple floral and animal patterns in green and brown and more intricate designs such as mermaids and mythical creatures. By comparison, archaeological finds from Deruta show a simpler style. Most pieces were functional items for daily use, such as vases, wine and water jugs, bowls, and basins. The decorations followed the traditional two-color archaic scheme, with geometric shapes and quick, stylized images of flowers and leaves.

Deruta’s medieval ceramic tradition forms the foundation of the town’s world-famous pottery heritage, blending everyday function with the earliest forms of artistic expression in Italian ceramics.

Raffaellesco Deruta Ceramics: A Timeless Icon of Italian Majolica

Few art forms capture the spirit, culture, and history of Italy like Deruta ceramics. Among the many famous patterns from this Umbrian town, the Raffaellesco design is one of the most celebrated. Known for its elegance, vivid colors, and rich symbolism, it has become a defining style in Italian majolica.

The origins of the Raffaellesco decoration trace back to the work of Raphael, the great Renaissance painter Raffaello Sanzio. In the 1500s, he created ornamental designs filled with fantastical and mythological imagery. These elements were later adapted by the master potters of Deruta, a town already famous for its ceramic craft since medieval times.

During the Renaissance, Deruta majolica gained prestige across Italy and even abroad. It was admired in noble courts and collected for its artistic value. The signature Raffaellesco dragon emerged during this era. This stylized creature came to symbolize protection, strength, and good fortune for travelers, a meaning that continues today.

Raphael, who lived from 1483 to 1520, is remembered for his detailed frescoes filled with classical and decorative motifs. His work in the Vatican Rooms featured intricate grotesques, arabesques, and mythological figures. These motifs deeply influenced the decorative arts of the time, including ceramics.

By the 16th century, Deruta workshops began incorporating Raphael’s visual language into their pottery. The Raffaellesco pattern took its name from the artist, with its signature dragon believed to be adapted from his own designs. The creature, drawn with graceful curves, spread wings, and fine detailing, is often shown breathing winds that bring prosperity and safe passage.

The Raffaellesco collection is instantly recognizable by its unique features. The central dragon motif commands attention with its flowing form and dignified stance. Bright colors dominate the design, especially golden yellow, cobalt blue, deep green, and a warm red-orange, all set against a clean white glaze. Surrounding the dragon are rich baroque-inspired scrolls, acanthus leaves, and arabesques that give the decoration its layered, harmonious look. Every piece is still hand-painted by skilled artisans, preserving techniques passed down for centuries, ensuring that no two works are exactly alike.

Today, the Raffaellesco style appears across a wide range of handcrafted ceramics. Large serving and display plates add a decorative touch to any table. Pitchers and jugs bring both beauty and everyday function. Trays and centerpieces create an air of refinement, while soup tureens and bowls bring elegance to the kitchen. Glasses and cups carry the Renaissance charm into everyday life.

The Story of MOD Maioliche Originali Deruta

The history of MOD begins with Delia, a determined and charismatic woman from Deruta. She had worked as a painter at the Ars Artigiana ceramic factory, where her husband Antonio was a supervisor. Wanting to follow her own path, she left her job and opened a small workshop called Ceramiche Delia. The space was nothing more than the garage on the ground floor of their home, but it marked the start of a new chapter.

In 1957, Delia and Antonio welcomed their first child, Ivan. Their daughter Grazia was born in 1963. By 1970, Antonio decided to leave his supervisory role at the factory and join Delia in expanding the workshop into a proper business. This was the birth of MOD: Maioliche Originali Deruta.

They worked long days, often 12 to 14 hours, and their dedication paid off quickly. Customers from the Amalfi Coast began placing large orders, sometimes thousands of pieces at a time. As demand grew, they hired additional workers. Ivan, only fourteen at the time, spent his mornings at school and his afternoons helping in the family business.

A year later, the family faced a crisis when Antonio fell seriously ill. For a time, his survival was uncertain. Delia and Ivan juggled hospital visits with production deadlines, determined to keep the company running. After several surgeries, Antonio recovered fully. In 1979, the family purchased a new building on Via Tiberina in Deruta, which became MOD’s permanent home.

By then, Ivan was deeply involved in the factory’s daily operations alongside fifteen employees. Most sales were within Italy, serving tourist shops along the Amalfi Coast, Liguria, and Elba, as well as wholesale clients in Veneto, Lazio, Tuscany, and Piedmont. Grazia initially had no interest in joining the business, but at twenty-one, after marrying and becoming pregnant, she began working alongside her husband and brother. Her second daughter, Selene, was born a few years later.

At twenty-six, Grazia returned to university, and by thirty, she had completed her degree and authored a book on twentieth-century Deruta ceramics. In 1996, after divorcing, she rejoined MOD, taking her ex-husband’s place and working closely with Ivan. Over time, the market focus turned from Italy to abroad, with the United States eventually accounting for more than 70 percent of sales.

In 2000, the family expanded the building, adding two new floors. One was dedicated to kilns and production, and the other became home to the Romano Ranieri Ceramics Art School. The school, still active today, offers private courses for both beginners and experienced artisans. The ground floor was transformed into a showroom.

Meanwhile, Giacomo and Selene developed their own passion for ceramics. Balancing university studies and other jobs, they gradually became permanent members of the business.

The years ahead brought loss. In 2020, Grazia passed away unexpectedly, reshaping the company’s leadership. In 2023, Antonio died, followed by Delia in 2024.

Today, Ivan continues to lead MOD with the same dedication his parents began with, working alongside Giacomo and Selene to keep alive the tradition, craftsmanship, and spirit that have defined the company since its earliest days.

The Philosophy of MOD Ceramics: Maioliche Originali Deruta

Every piece signed MOD Ceramics holds more than its shape. It carries a gesture, a story, and a vision.

The company was born in Deruta, where ceramics is part of the town’s identity. Their work is rooted in deep respect for a centuries-old tradition that they continue to protect with pride. Rather than simply repeating the past, they reinterpret it, keeping its spirit alive while adapting it for the future.

To them, craftsmanship is a living language. Each creation reflects the beauty of the handmade, where every shade is unique and every line is shaped by skill, care, and emotion. Brushes guided by experience and heart turn feeling into color, leaving marks that bring each work to life.

The name MOD Ceramics was chosen to be simple and universally understood. MOD stands for Maioliche Originali Deruta, the authentic heart of their story. Behind these three letters is the soul of a family that has preserved the art of ceramics for generations, driven by passion for the craft and love for their land. This identity is honored in every piece they produce.

Their philosophy is built on four principles. They keep tradition alive, renewing it each day so the essence of Deruta ceramics endures. They value authenticity, ensuring every line, color, and detail is made entirely by hand. They believe in everyday elegance, bringing art into daily life so that even simple moments feel special. And they work with respect, honoring the earth, the materials, the time, and the knowledge of their artisans, with a commitment to sustainable and responsible production.

With each piece they shape or paint, they renew their promise to share the true essence of their land with the world, turning it into art that stands the test of time.

Capri Ceramic Collection: Handcrafted Italian Pottery with Citrus Designs

The Capri collection is one of the most admired lines of handmade Italian ceramics. Introduced to the public only a year ago, after being offered exclusively to retailers, it has quickly earned wide appreciation and strong sales.

Each piece in the Capri ceramic collection is created entirely by hand by skilled Italian artisans. The deep blue background evokes the sea and sky of the island of Capri, while vivid citrus designs add warmth and freshness. Oranges and lemons take center stage, symbolizing the vitality and beauty of the Italian landscape.

Every item is painted using traditional techniques passed down for generations. Crafted from high-quality materials and finished with food-safe colors and glazes, these ceramics are designed to last for many years. They are as durable as they are beautiful, suitable for both formal dining and everyday meals.

The Capri line offers a range of pieces, including plates, bowls, cups, and teapots. Each design is slightly different, making every item unique and allowing for a table setting with a truly personal touch.

The Capri majolica collection is a lasting piece of Italian craftsmanship. Each hand-painted work blends artistry, quality, and tradition, making it a timeless addition to any home and a treasure that can be passed down through generations.