A unique sculpture of the legendary young man

Collapse.
Legend.
This is a story about a young Sicilian, renowned for his water skills, to the point that he was summoned by the King of Swabia, Frederick II, who sought insight into the foundations of Sicily.
Colapesce dove into the sea and informed the king that one of the three pillars supporting Sicily was on the verge of collapsing. Hearing these words, the king was moved to tears and begged him to do something to save the island. Thus, the young man descended into the depths of the sea and never resurfaced. When the king and queen waited in vain for him on the shore, they heard his voice coming from the depths: “Your Majesty, I am here at the bottom of the sea, but I can no longer return.”
This spectacular interpretation of the legend was created by artist Gloria Di Modica and was carefully handcrafted at every stage. Its purpose is to pay homage to popular traditions, and this piece clearly embodies the essence of the Mediterranean Sea. Made from white clay and decorated with glossy glazes, it reflects the shades of the sea, transitioning from crystalline blue to deep green, enriched with numerous tones of orange, yellow, red, blue, and others, all enhanced by a high-quality glossy finish.

Artefice Atelier is a brand synonymous with the highest quality materials and craftsmanship.

The dual nature of a ceramic object is one of the most fascinating aspects of human activity to explore. Truly, success in resolving the divide between practical problems and individual expression presents a creative challenge for Artefice Atelier. The way they approach this theme defines the quality of their perception and artistic creativity.
SYRACUSE, OUR STRENGTH

Here, the power of volcanoes merges with a rich and fascinating history, inspiring culture, deep-rooted traditions, and a vibrant present. This unique place sparks inspiration through its wild beauty, eruptions, and a history that still echoes in its ancient ruins.
Thanks to its natural majesty and timeless cultural heritage, Sicily offers endless inspiration for creativity.
Indeed, this island, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich culture, is the creative cradle of Artefice Atelier, from which it draws the essence of its works. Artistic artifacts, shaped by master artisans, contain the fiery energy of volcanoes and the depth of ancient Sicilian legends, giving each piece a unique soul.
TO CREATE

One of our strengths is continuous idea exchange with clients. Comparing their thoughts and needs is an essential and irreplaceable part of creating new items.

Each piece is crafted with care and love, with attention to detail; and the working method is part of the manufactory’s identity, never to be betrayed. It is fundamental for them to constantly seek new stimuli, original harmonies, and broaden horizons through artistic expressions that are never banal and always experimental.

The brand also distinguishes itself by the quality of raw materials it works with, such as stoneware suitable for tableware. Every day, they work to achieve the main goal: to channel all creativity into serving others, realizing their desires through their artistic sense.

FROM EARTH TO MAJOLICA

Every work begins with a pencil sketch, translating the artist’s thoughts. From there, shaping the object transforms the imagined image into reality. Skilled hands use clay and water to almost magically create desired shapes. Left to dry for several days under special conditions, the object reaches the so-called “skin hardness” and is then ready for the first firing at around 1000°C.

Terracotta is then ready for decoration. This is a phase in the production process during which the artist gives their all. Often, it’s about giving space for imagination and color.

The production process concludes with a second firing at about 920°C, which enhances the colors’ brilliance and preserves the paints for centuries. Sometimes, a third firing is necessary due to the gloss.
WITH ALL MY HEART

Dynamic, eclectic, based on artistic experiences, continuous pursuit of beauty, and planning that aims to make Made in Italy its strength and pride. It focuses on the highest quality materials and highly skilled artisans with refined craftsmanship.

Proposals for contemporary home furnishings, style, and design, presented through profiles mimicking various artistic expressions, where painting art merges with different forms, expressing itself in unique objects—raw earth that can now become a vase, now a lamp, now a praying and dynamic sculpture.

Cutting-edge technologies, a desire to experiment, ongoing research commitment, and our motivation are the factors behind the success of the manufactory.

 
DESIGN, QUALITY, AND ORIGINALITY

All our production is driven by the pursuit of style, in the name of elegance and good taste, where tradition and modernity, design and innovation come together to offer a product of excellence.

Every detail reflects great passion and craftsmanship: profound knowledge of raw materials, majolica processing, and a careful love for details. Tangible results of an unceasing search for beauty and character, where design merges with the experience of the most meticulous craftsmanship.

Artefice Atelier, a happy meeting of stylistic inspirations from the past and the continuous search for the most modern allure, interprets high creativity at the highest level—an encounter of art, design, and good taste—while the alchemy of colors combined with material creates a signature, generating avant-garde objects with a unique and unmistakable personality.

Manufacturer information