Majolica is a type of soft earthenware ceramic formed with plaster of paris molds. The first base coat of glaze is lead-based and then brightly colored metal oxide glazes are applied on top. The ceramics then receive another firing. During the second firing, the glazes interact creating the rich colors majolica pieces carry so well. Many majolica artists looked to nature for inspiration. Ocean themes, farm animals, fruits and exotically colored plant motifs all find a home within the decoration of these earthenware’s. The majolica most often collected today was developed by ceramics expert Herbert Minton and chemist Leon Arnoux, debuted at the Great Exhibition in London in 1850’s.
