The head of Polyphemus - a unique character from Greek mythology

People living around the Mediterranean Sea have a deep connection with Greek mythology, so much so that it is deeply woven into the fabric of culture and everyday life in the Mediterranean regions. The monstrous Polyphemus, imagined by artist Gloria Di Modica, seamlessly became part of this rich and widely appreciated iconography.

Thanks to its elegant and exotic appeal, the myth of Polyphemus evokes the raw and untamed power of myth, while simultaneously disarming and fascinating, captivating viewers in an ethereal realm.

This exquisite majolica sculpture offers a contemporary interpretation of the head of a Sicilian Moor, carefully crafted from terracotta and hand-decorated using traditional ceramic techniques.

Each of these masterpieces has been meticulously handcrafted, ensuring that every element is a unique work, potentially exhibiting subtle differences from those presented here.

The Artefice Atelier brand is synonymous with the highest quality raw materials and human craftsmanship.

The dual nature of ceramic objects 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 it approaches this theme defines the quality of its perception and artistic ingenuity.

SICILY, OUR STRENGTH

Here, the power of volcanoes merges with a rich and fascinating history, inspiring culture, authentic traditions, and a vibrant present. This unique place unleashes 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 nourishment for creativity.

In fact, 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 craftsmen, 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 source of inspiration for creating new items.

Every piece is made 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 stands out for 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 sensibility.

FROM THE EARTH TO MAJOLICA

Every work begins with a pencil sketch, which is an interpretation of the artist’s thoughts. This shapes the object, transforming an imagined image into reality. Skilled hands use clay and water to almost magically create desired shapes. After leaving the piece to dry for several days in special conditions, it 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 of 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 due to the gloss.

WITH ALL OUR HEART

Dynamic, eclectic, based on artistic experience, continuous pursuit of beauty, and planning that makes Made in Italy its strength and pride. It relies on the highest quality materials and highly skilled artisans with refined craftsmanship.

Proposition of equipment, style, and design for a contemporary home, suggested through a profile 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, continuous research engagement, and our motivation are the factors behind the brand's success.

DESIGN, QUALITY, AND ORIGINALITY

All our production is guided 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: thorough knowledge of raw materials, majolica processing, and a careful love for details. Tangible results of the relentless search for beauty and character, where design merges with the experience of the most meticulous craftsmanship.

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

Manufacturer information