Bust of Seneca

Maiolica is tin-glazed pottery decorated in colours on a white background. The most renowned maiolica is from the Renaissance period. These works were known as istoriato wares when depicting historical and mythical scenes. Its origins date from painted Hispano-Moresque ware from Spain, developing the styles of Al-Andalus. By the late 15th century, multiple locations were producing sophisticated pieces for a luxury market. In Italy, the production arose in the northern and central regions. In France, maiolica developed as faience, in the Netherlands and England as delftware, and in Spain as talavera. In English, the spelling was anglicised to majolica.