Description A distinctive vintage Sicilian maiolica plate, hand painted in Caltagirone and dated 17 March 1983. The plate features a traditional Caltagirone-inspired palette of deep cobalt blue, warm ochre yellow, cream and touches of brown, with scrolling foliate decoration surrounding a bold central floral rosette. The reverse is hand inscribed with what appears to read “Crisalfi a Caltagirone” together with “Dipinto a Mano” — “painted by hand.” Around the front rim is the commemorative inscription: CRAL – SIP REGIONALE SICILIA PALERMO – AL’ REALE 17.3.83 The inscription appears to relate to an event or presentation associated with the Sicilian regional CRAL of SIP, Italy’s former national telephone company. This gives the plate an unusual social and institutional history in addition to its decorative appeal. Caltagirone, in southeastern Sicily, has been one of Italy’s most important centers of maiolica production for centuries and is particularly known for richly colored, hand-painted ceramics. This is a particularly attractive example for display in a Mediterranean, Italian country, maximalist or traditional interior.

Origin: Caltagirone, Sicily, Italy

Date: 17 March 1983 Maker/workshop: Inscribed Crisalfi, Caltagirone Material: Glazed ceramic / maiolica

Decoration: Hand painted Diameter: 27.5 cm / 10.8 in

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description. Minor irregularities in the glaze, brushwork and surface are characteristic of hand-painted artisan ceramics and contribute to the individuality of the piece.