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Collection of 23 Italian Hand-Painted Glazed Terracotta Tiles — From Iris Apfel

$3,450per set
£2,637.93per set
€3,021.77per set
CA$4,865.90per set
A$5,295.96per set
CHF 2,829.97per set
MX$63,955.01per set
NOK 35,565.83per set
SEK 33,080.36per set
DKK 22,574.03per set

About the Item

Colorful collection of twenty-three Italian hand-painted glazed terracotta tiles, mid-20th century, in various floral and geometric patterns. Likely produced in Deruta or Vietri sul Mare, Italy’s historic ceramic centers. From the Iris Apfel Collection, reflecting the legendary designer’s passion for traditional craftsmanship and vivid design. Dimensions: Each tile approximately 7.75″ square A vibrant and varied collection of twenty-three Italian hand-painted glazed terracotta tiles, comprising sample tiles from different decorative series, including “Roselline,” “Spoleto,” “Amalfi,” and “Gubbio.” Each displays a distinct regional motif rendered in colorful majolica glazes—swirling acanthus leaves, stylized florals, scrolling ribbons, and geometric flourishes. The palette features vivid Mediterranean tones of cobalt blue, ochre yellow, sage green, black, and rose pink on a white ground, characteristic of Italy’s enduring ceramic tradition. Stamped underside marks indicate Italian manufacture, likely from one of the Deruta or Vietri sul Mare workshops, both renowned for their artisanal tile production rooted in Renaissance-era craftsmanship. These sample tiles were originally created as pattern references for architects, decorators, and collectors, reflecting mid-20th-century interest in traditional design revival and regional artistry. The set includes duplicates of most designs and one larger composition of four tiles forming a single motif. Together, they capture the exuberant spirit of hand-painted Italian ceramics—versatile for display, wall installation, or tabletop use. Provenance: The Iris Apfel Collection — Acquired from the personal collection of Iris Apfel (1921–2024), the celebrated American tastemaker and textile expert. Apfel’s lifelong devotion to global decorative arts and artisanal craftsmanship is reflected in her holdings, which often included Continental ceramics and traditional craft exemplars. Condition: Good overall condition. Some tiles with minor edge chips and surface wear consistent with age and use. Bright, glossy glazes throughout.
  • Similar to:
    Deruta (Manufacturer)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 7.5 in (19.05 cm)Width: 7.5 in (19.05 cm)Depth: 0.5 in (1.27 cm)
  • Sold As:
    Set of 23
  • Style:
    Mid-Century Modern (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Ceramic,Fired,Glazed,Hand-Painted
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1950 s
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Morristown, NJ
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5990247155802

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