Think about Brunelleschi’s cupola, in Florence, think about its color… that rich, beautiful orangey-red, so vibrant and clean, so vivid against the blue skies of a terse winter day. Well, that color is all down to Impruneta terracotta.
Impruneta, set in picturesque Tuscany, more specifically, in the Chianti region of Tuscany, is only about 9 miles south of Florence and is known for its scenic beauty and culture. With its medieval architecture, the town itself is a lovely place to spend some time reveling in the tranquillity of the countryside before venturing into the much more crowded streets of Florence.
The history of Impruneta terracotta
But, of course, Impruneta is chiefly known for its terracotta. Local pottery tells a centuries-long story of craftsmanship and cultural evolution, with the earliest attestations of pottery making found in a document from 1098, which mentioned the presence of tile makers in the Impruneta area. By the early 14th century, a local guild was already uniting local artisans who specialized in making jars and pitchers. This guild played an essential role in safeguarding and regulating terracotta production, as shown in the extensive documentation from the municipal and parish archives of Impruneta, as well as the State Archive of Florence. These documents reveal how, starting in the 15th century, terracotta production significantly shaped both the economy and social life of the region, becoming a defining element of its unique culture.
In the early 15th century, Filippo Brunelleschi chose Impruneta’s terracotta to build the dome of Florence’s Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore: he recognized the material’s blend of sturdiness and lightness was essential for the dome’s unsupported vault. His very high standards demanded perfect bricks from Impruneta artisans, possibly leading to the development of specialized techniques and mixes that set themselves apart from those used by potters in other areas and for other Florentine structures of the era. In later centuries, especially in the 18th, the flourishing of terracotta production in Impruneta gave rise to several dynasties of brickmakers including the Casini, Falciani, Vantini, Soderi, Vanni, Ricceri, and Agresti families. The 18th century also saw the abolition of the clay tax by Leopold II of Tuscany, resulting in a boom in brick production which, along with the urban transformations in Florence during this period, further propelled the prosperity of terracotta work.
The advent of the 19th and 20th centuries marked the introduction of industrial processes in terracotta manufacturing, which allowed for larger-scale production, especially for building materials. Today, Impruneta terracotta production is divided into industrial and artisanal, with the first focusing on high-quality terracotta paving and other products, and the latter producing interior decorations and garden ornaments, or restoring antique pieces using exclusively traditional manual methods and minimally relying on mechanical tools.
The key ingredient, Galestro clay
The key to Impruneta’s high-quality terracotta lies in the local Galestro clay, known for its exceptional qualities. This clay is celebrated for its rich mineral content, which confers durability and strength to terracotta products. Its remarkable plasticity and malleability allow artisans to shape it into various designs, making it perfect for both functional and decorative ceramic works. One of its most distinctive features is its resistance to freezing temperatures, attributed to its high granitic content. This characteristic ensures that terracotta products made with it can withstand harsh weather conditions, especially in outdoor settings. Galestro clay is versatile, which means it can be used to make a wide array of ceramic products, from practical items like roofing tiles and storage vessels to ornamental art pieces. And we shouldn’t forget that Galestro clay not only contributes to the physical attributes of finished pottery products, offering them a unique texture and color, but it also holds immense cultural and artistic value.
Impruneta pottery today
As we said, the craft of making terracotta in Impruneta evolved through the centuries, but its core time-honored methods of production have been preserved. The raw clay is processed using these traditional techniques and then baked in kilns, just as it used to be done centuries ago. The renowned quality of Impruneta terracotta is particularly evident in its garden ornaments and planters, celebrated for durability and elegance that seamlessly blend into outdoor environments. These pieces, thanks to Galestro clay, are capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions, so they are both beautiful and functional at once.
When it comes to architecture, Impruneta pottery is a preferred choice for roofing tiles – well, if it was good enough for Brunelleschi… – and decorative façades, owing to its durable nature and classic beauty. But it’s also a popular choice for interior decoration, where items like vases and bowls can add a touch of rustic Tuscan charm to homes and public areas. Local artisans continue to uphold the tradition of crafting bespoke, handcrafted pieces, demonstrating a blend of creativity and skill: these custom pieces, whether for functional use or decorative purposes, embody the essence of Impruneta’s rich terracotta heritage, which is carefully preserved through traditional manufacturing methods while embracing modern touches where necessary.
As briefly mentioned above, Impruneta terracotta is also used for restoration projects, particularly for those involving the conservation of the architectural heritage of historic buildings.
It’s important to note that genuine Impruneta pottery is made in the commune of Impruneta, and while other potteries in the surrounding areas also use Galestro clay, not all can claim the “Impruneta” label. The reputation of Impruneta terracotta, built on generations of superb craftsmanship, has truly made it a sought-after product in the world of garden design and home decor, so beware of imitations!
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