Past History of the Italian Ceramic Industry
In the seventeenth century, the growing demand for Chinese porcelains saw Dutch ceramists imitate the style, which led to an influx of foreign ceramics into the local markets of Serenissima (Venice). To combat this, in 1728, the Venetian Senate provided tax breaks to encourage local production, and so began the District of Nove Ceramics.
During the twentieth century (in particular the 1950s), there was a period of renewal and significant growth for the ceramic industry.
In this period, the Institute of Art hosted, as directors and professors, essential personalities such as Parini and Petucco. They contributed to giving life to a season of renewal that brought new artistic incentives. Artists emerged such as Lucietti, Tasca, and Pianezzola, whose ceramic works of art are today exhibited in many international museums.
Today Nove is recognised as one of the 37 Italian cities of ancient ceramic tradition. In 1985, in the rooms that hosted the first art school, the Civic Museum was inaugurated, which collects a vast assortment of works and artefacts that trace the history as evidence of the tradition of “ceramic making” of this territory.
The Early Years of VBC
In the early years, production concentrated on existing products before creating objects of a more linear design, in line with the tastes of the time. As production increased, more young apprentices were hired who ultimately became the company’s backbone.
By the end of the 80s, CERAMICA V.B.C. begins to produce its first completely original lines, specialising in tableware.
In more recent years, new materials and finishes have been applied to collections with a unique and original design that contributes to building an even more marked identity of the company, leading to the creation of the company brand VBC Casa.
Even so, production continues to follow the artisan method of artistic ceramics, thanks to men and women with more than thirty years of experience, maintaining the highest quality of the products and passing on their skills to the new generation.
Butter Dish – Incanto – Made in Italy is now available from Finch & Lane, 202 High Street Ashburton VIC 3147; worldwide shipping.
