La Botteghina del Ceramista, Florence

What to buy here: Florentine Pottery.

In the vicinity of Florence lies a quaint town named Montelupo, renowned for its longstanding tradition in pottery production that dates back to the Middle Ages. For those seeking a gift infused with Italian artistic charm, the handmade reproductions of robbiane, a style of Renaissance-inspired glazed terracotta from Florence, are truly delightful. These exquisite pieces can be found at La Botteghina del Ceramista.

Despite its small size, the shop houses an impressive collection of earthenware, including plates, jars, pots, bowls, carafes, and other lead-free, dishwasher-safe pottery. Some of these pieces are even oven-safe, adding to their practicality. They are crafted by talented local artists who specialize in both contemporary designs and the faithful reproduction of 13th-century patterns. The designs from Montelupo are particularly known for their traditional and rustic aesthetic, while those from Deruta, also available at La Botteghina, feature more geometric and elaborate patterns, vibrant with an array of colors.

What adds to the appeal of La Botteghina is its reasonable pricing, making these beautiful pottery pieces accessible to a wider audience. Moreover, they offer international shipping, allowing customers from around the world to enjoy these artistic treasures.