Heads of a Moor and a Moorish woman referring to the history of Sicily

An icon of Sicilian culture, part of the heritage and history.

The Head of the Moor, originally introduced during the Arab occupation in the 8th century, has over the centuries become an inseparable symbol of Sicilian tradition.

Luxurious details in mother-of-pearl, platinum, and copper metallic colors give the item timeless elegance and a unique shine.

Each Head of the Moor is unique, crafted with attention to detail by skilled artisans who keep the Sicilian tradition alive.

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

The dual nature of the ceramic object is one of the most fascinating aspects of human activity worth exploring. Truly, success in balancing practical problems with individual expression presents a creative challenge for Artefice Atelier. The way they approach this defines the quality of their perception and artistic creativity.

SICILY, OUR STRENGTH

Here, the power of volcanoes merges with a rich and fascinating past, inspiring culture, authentic traditions, and a vibrant present. This extraordinary place unleashes inspiration through its wild beauty, eruptions, and 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 enchanting 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 carry 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 source of inspiration for creating new items.

Every piece is crafted with care and love, paying attention to detail; and the working method is part of the manufactory’s identity, never to be betrayed. They are committed to constantly seeking new stimuli, original harmonies, broadening horizons through artistic expressions that are never banal and always experimental.

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

FROM THE EARTH TO MAJOLICA

Every work begins with a pencil sketch, which is an interpretation of the artist’s thoughts. From there, the shaping of 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.

Terra cotta 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 through the ages. Sometimes, a third firing is necessary for the desired gloss.

WITH ALL OUR HEART

A dynamic, eclectic approach based on artistic experimentation, continuous search for beauty, and planning that makes Made in Italy its strength and pride. They focus on the highest quality materials and highly experienced craftsmen with refined skills.

Their proposal for contemporary home decor, style, and design is expressed through a profile that mimics various artistic expressions, where painting merges with different forms, manifesting in unique objects—raw earth that can become a vase, a lamp, or a lively, expressive sculpture.

The most advanced technologies, a desire to experiment, ongoing research, and our motivation are the key factors behind the success of the manufactory.

DESIGN, QUALITY, AND ORIGINALITY

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

Artefice Atelier, being a fortunate meeting of stylistic inspirations from the past and the continuous quest for the most modern allure, interprets high creativity at the highest level, a meeting of art, design, and good taste, while the alchemy of colors combined with material signatures creates avant-garde objects with a unique and unmistakable personality.