Hand-Painted Blue Carnation Mug - Garofano Faenza Tradition

This beautifully proportioned mug (3 ½" x 3") features the celebrated Garofano motif: scrolling foliage, stylized blossoms, and delicate ornamental details unfolding across a soft white ground. The rich blue border and hand-brushed flourishes echo the refined balance that has defined Faenza ceramics for centuries.

The Garofano—Italian for carnation—first appeared in 18th-century Faenza, inspired by the imagined gardens of the East. Painted on luminous enamel, its intricate rhythm of flowers and foliage became the most iconic pattern of the region. Each stroke is applied by hand, preserving a tradition where patience, gesture, and artistry shape every surface.

Handcrafted in Faenza, Italy—one of the most important ceramic centers in Europe—this piece reflects generations of mastery. Faenza’s artisans are renowned for their tin-glaze technique, a luminous white enamel that provides the perfect canvas for detailed brushwork. Each mug is created in small batches, honoring centuries-old methods passed from maestro to apprentice.

Artisanal Authenticity Statement

Small imperfections—such as variations in color, shape, diameter, or the presence of tiny bubbles within the glaze—do not constitute a defect. They are a testament to the authenticity of a truly handcrafted artisanal piece.

Product Details

• Handcrafted in Italy

• Artisan-made in Faenza, Italy

• Hand-painted Garofano (Carnation) design

• Natural variations expected

Styling & Use Inspiration

Perfect for morning coffee, afternoon tea, or displayed among heirloom ceramics, this Garofano mug brings the spirit of la tavola italiana into everyday living. A thoughtful gift for collectors and those who appreciate enduring Italian design.

At Maestri Maiolicari Faentini workshop was founded in 1978 in Faenza by Lea Emiliani, artisans still work as they have for generations: forming each vessel by hand, applying a luminous white enamel, and painting every Garofano bloom freehand with steady brush and practiced eye. No decals. No shortcuts. Only time, tradition, and the quiet discipline of true craftsmanship.

Inspired by the 17th century Japanese Imari style, the Blue Carnation design was first developed showing a stylized representation of the Japanese garden. Originating in Lodi near Milan, Blue Carnation is now produced in Rimini by the Adriatic Sea. The original owner Bruno Brolli has turned over the workshop to his apprentice Roberto del Vecchio. 

Italian ceramics are heirloom quality products, and can last lifetime with proper care. We have some suggestions that will preserve your majolica for years to come.

Majolica is dishwasher safe, but many people choose to hand wash their pieces as a precaution. Because majolica is a porous material, some pieces are not meant to hold liquid for a long period of time. Check for warning labels before ordering a product, as the pieces that are most notorious for "sweating" are appropriately labeled.

Majolica is sensitive to extreme temperatures, specifically boiling or freezing liquids. Pouring water with a rolling boil directly into a teapot, for example, may lead to breakage. To avoid this, temper the object. The industry standard is 620 degrees Celsius (1,148 degrees Fahrenheit). Quench the glass to cool it.

Crazing is common in well used majolica. The tiny cracks in the glaze do not affect the functionality of your majolica.

Majolica hand-crafted products should not be microwaved, as it may crack and/or break the ceramics.

UPS Ground

Flat shipping charge of $10 for each shipment of merchandise under $100.00. For orders of $100.00 or more, shipping is 10% of the order total.

UPS Next Day Air

Flat shipping charge of $63 for each shipment of merchandise under $70.00. For orders of $70.00 or more, shipping is 90% of the order total.

UPS 2-Day Priority (Rush Shipping)

Flat shipping charge of $42 for each shipment of merchandise under $70.00. For orders of $70.00 or more, shipping is 60% of the order total. Note: This option is required for shipping to Alaska and Hawaii.

USPS 3-Day Priority

Flat shipping charge of $21 for each shipment of merchandise under $70.00. For orders of $70.00 or more, shipping is 30% of the order total.

International Shipments

Please contact us at customerservice@biordi.com or call us at (415) 392-8096 for quotes to ship internationally.

You will be charged a rate based on your delivery area, value and shipping preference. For items shipped via UPS, see below for information pricing information. Once the package is shipped, you will receive an email with tracking information to track your package.