Paola is Italian, trained in the Italian Maiolica tradition, and uses traditional Italian Glazes to make unique modern Maiolica. All her products are hand formed and hand painted. After immigrating to the United States she studied ceramics in the ASUC studio at the University of California, Berkeley. Paola explored many techniques used in ceramics: pit fire, raku, high fire, stoneware, low fire, tile making and sculpture. Through these experiences she found a path to combine her two loves – shaping and painting – by practicing an old Italian tradition, Maiolica.
Ten years ago she started an intensive immersion in Maiolica by studying with masters in Faenza and Florence, Italy. She handcrafts her clay shapes and then paints and fires them with her unique designs. She has taken classic shapes in new directions, resulting in a successful line of unique and affordable functional Maiolica. She particularly enjoys working with clients on custom projects to satisfy their unique requirements: tile tables, vases, wall plates.
Set of two Italian Canisters - Blue/Yellow
These canisters are a modern adaptation of the old Albarello medicinal jars, which were designed to hold apothecaries’ ointments and herbs. Medicinal jars have their roots in the Middle East and were brought to Italy by Hispano-Moresque traders.
The earliest Italian examples were produced in Florence in the 15th century. This set of jars are hand thrown. The shape of the jar emulates bamboo, which was the traditional manufacturing material. For the painted design I chose a bright yellow and a soft blue. These jars are ideal for storing your favorite pasta, rice and cookies. They are also a beautiful counter decor.
More Details 
Tall Italian Majolica Vase
For this particular vase I got the inspiration from a drawing of an elephant foot, that I saw in a museum in Italy. I start by hand throwing a tall cylinder with a wide stable base. I wanted to add a texture element to this piece, which would complement the otherwise glossy surface, for which purpose I excised a ring-shaped recess on the outside of the piece. I chose a natural fiber, simple yute rope, to wrap the recess. For the painted decor I chose my favorite spring flowers, Calla Lilies.
Beautiful Large Italian Wall Plate
The calm and tranquil palate of blue colors of the Mediterranean Sea was the inspiration for this large wall plate. The piece is decorated with a series of geometrical rings. On the back of this plate there is a metal loop for hanging.
Salsa Italiana - Chips and dip Bowl
This bowl has an innovative sculpted design. I wanted to create a piece that was fun and functional at the same time. I first hand threw 2 bowls on the wheel, one small bowl for the salsa and one large bowl large enough to hold a bag of chips. Then I manipulated the shapes and joined them to create a single piece. For the painted design I chose a vibrant green and yellow. With this creation you can serve your favorite chips and dip the Italian way!
Italian Serving Bowl With Lipped Rim
I designed this bowl to combine practicality and beauty. I started by hand throwing a large shallow with an unusually wide lipped rim, which also serves as a handle. As for the painted design, I chose a geometrical pattern, using different shades of green. The lacy design on the rim beautifully complements salads and pasta dishes.
Clock, Blue and Yellow Italian Design
This clock it is entirely hand made. It is hand thrown on the pottery wheel, bisque fired, glazed, painted and then fired a second time. I decorated this piece with a geometrical design composed from hues of sunflower yellow and deep blue, which are my favorite colors. This clock will be a great addition to a kitchen or a living room area. On the back of the clock there is a metal loop, so that it can be hung on the wall.
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