VINTAGE & COLLECTIBLE CERAMICS Franco Mari Raffaellesco Napkin Holder

Franco Mari Vintage Napkin Holder

From a private Italian collection
Curated artisan ceramic centerpiece
Handcrafted by Franco Mari, Italy

Bring a touch of Renaissance-inspired Italian artistry to the table with this charming Raffaellesco ceramic napkin holder, a decorative accent that transforms an everyday essential into a collectible work of art.

The piece features the iconic Raffaellesco dragon, rendered in rich golden yellow, cobalt blue, green, and warm terracotta. Surrounded by delicate scrolling flourishes and botanical accents, the fantastical creature gives the piece the unmistakable character associated with the centuries-old ceramic traditions of Deruta and Umbria.

Its sculptural, gently curved form is designed to cradle folded napkins while remaining beautiful from every angle. A sunny yellow border with fine painted detailing frames the silhouette, adding warmth and definition against the creamy white ceramic ground.

Perfect for the dining table, kitchen island, or outdoor Italian-inspired gathering, this Raffaellesco napkin holder pairs function with decorative charm. It is equally appealing displayed alongside coordinating Raffaellesco tableware or collected as a distinctive piece on its own.

For lovers of Italian maiolica, Raffaellesco ceramics, and vintage Italian tableware, this is a delightful addition that brings color, history, and a touch of la dolce vita to the table.

As a vintage collectible, subtle variations, imperfections, and signs of age contribute to its individual character. Please review photographs carefully for condition.

Details: Raffaellesco Italian ceramic napkin holder · Iconic dragon motif · Sculptural curved design · Cobalt blue, golden yellow, green and terracotta decoration · Decorative and functional table accessory · Vintage & collectible Italian ceramic

ARTISAN STORY

Franco Mari: Master Artisan of Deruta, Italy

In the hilltop town of Deruta, Italy—the heart of Italian maiolica pottery for over 500 years—few names carry as much prestige and reverence as Franco Mari. A master artisan, painter, and designer, Franco Mari has become internationally renowned for his dedication to traditional hand-painted Deruta ceramics, his exceptional attention to detail, and his unique artistic vision that honors the past while inspiring collectors around the world.

With a deep respect for Renaissance-era motifs and classic Italian forms, Franco Mari is best known for his work with the iconic Ricco Deruta pattern—a design celebrated for its bold cobalt blues, golden scrolls, and rich greens. Under his brush, this centuries-old motif is revived with remarkable precision, depth, and emotion, making each piece a true work of art. Mari’s studio has become a destination for ceramic connoisseurs and collectors seeking authentic Deruta pottery of the highest quality.

What sets Franco Mari apart is not just his technical mastery, but his commitment to traditional maiolica techniques—from throwing clay on the wheel to hand-painting with mineral-based glazes, then firing in small batches to preserve quality. Every ceramic plate, coffee pot, vase, and charger that emerges from his workshop is a one-of-a-kind piece, bearing his signature and the unmistakable beauty of Italian heritage.

Franco Mari’s creations are highly sought-after for their heirloom quality, and vintage pieces in pristine condition are considered rare treasures in the world of collectible Italian ceramics. His work represents not only the soul of Deruta but also the enduring artistry of Italy itself.

At Biordi Art Imports, we are honored to offer a curated selection of authentic Franco Mari ceramics, each one a testament to craftsmanship, culture, and timeless Italian beauty.

Experience the art of Deruta through the hands of a true maestro—Franco Mari.

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.