MAJOLICA MONTELUPO Collection.The Majolica Montelupo Collection takes its name from the small town of Montelupo Fiorentino, which is situated in the heart of Tuscany, between Florence and Empoli.Montelupo Fiorentino has been an important center for manufacturing ceramics since medieval times.Its success can be credited to the natural abundance of clay in the surrounding area, primarily due to frequent flooding of the Arno River.These Majolica pieces are true classic from Montelupo (Tuscany) and an Artisticas exclusive, created using the now rare technique called ''Ingobbio''. Prior to first firing, a glaze obtained from a clay of different color is applied only on the exterior part of the object.This ancient Tuscan process produces an authentic ''Old World'' look, and adds significant body to the colors.You can actually feel the consistent (almost raised) body of the painting when gently passing your hand over decorated parts.Due to the complexity of both preparation and painting, this technique is now used by very few artisans, which makes these items very hard to find.12" X 22