VINTAGE & COLLECTIBLE CERAMICS Italian Hand-Painted Ceramic Centerpiece by Franco Mari

Franco Mari Vintage Centerpiece

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

This exceptional hand-painted Italian ceramic centerpiece by Franco Mari is a bold expression of classical Italian maiolica artistry and sculptural design. Distinguished by its dramatic double-scroll handles and elevated pedestal form, the piece commands attention as a work of decorative art rooted in centuries-old ceramic tradition.

The surface is meticulously painted by hand with intricate geometric and floral motifs in rich cobalt blue, warm golden yellow, and soft earthen tones. Repeating patterns encircle the bowl, while delicate detailing along the rim and foot adds rhythm, balance, and architectural elegance. Layered mineral glazes enhance depth and luminosity, allowing each brushstroke to remain visible—an unmistakable hallmark of true artisan craftsmanship.

Franco Mari is known for honoring historic Italian forms while infusing them with expressive energy and refined detail. Subtle variations in color, line, and glaze reflect the human hand behind the work, ensuring that no two pieces are ever exactly alike.

Designed as a decorative centerpiece rather than a functional vessel, this ceramic work is ideal for consoles, dining tables, credenzas, or curated interior displays. It brings Old World grandeur, artistry, and timeless Italian character to both traditional and contemporary spaces.

Details

• Handmade and hand-painted in Italy

• Artist: Franco Mari

• Sculptural pedestal centerpiece with double scroll handles

• Traditional Italian maiolica-inspired decoration

• Dimensions: 14" W × 17" H

• One-of-a-kind artisan character

• Intended for decorative display

Own a piece of Deruta’s legacy—bring home a Franco Mari original today.

The small imperfections such as the difference in color, shape, diameter or small bubbles that form inside, do not constitute a defect but testify that it is actually an artisanal product.

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.