Italian Deruta Charger

Majolica, a tin-glazed earthenware, has a rich history originating in the Middle East and spreading through Spain to Italy, where it flourished during the Renaissance. Italian Majolica, particularly from centers like Deruta, Faenza, and Urbino, became renowned for its vibrant colors, detailed designs, and often featured mythological, historical, or portrait subjects. These decorative plates, known as chargers, were often displayed as symbols of wealth and status.

These chargers are in the Italian Renaissance revival style, popular in the 19th century, which sought to emulate the artistry of earlier periods. The portraiture and decorative motifs are characteristic of this revival, aiming to capture the aesthetic and craftsmanship of the original Majolica masters. The inscription "SEMPRE FIDELIS" (Always Faithful) adds a personal or allegorical element, common in Renaissance portraiture.