Museo della ceramica di Savona

The Museo della Ceramica di Savona is a captivating destination for anyone interested in the rich tradition of ceramic art. Nestled in the historical heart of Savona, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the centuries, showcasing the evolution and artistry of Ligurian ceramics. The museum is housed in the splendid Palazzo Monte di Pietà, a 15th-century building that adds an extra layer of historical charm to your visit.

The History of the Museum

Established on December 16, 2014, the Museo della Ceramica di Savona was created to celebrate and preserve the ceramic heritage of Savona and Albissola Marina. The museum's collection comprises over a thousand pieces, ranging from the 15th century to contemporary works. Initially, these pieces were owned by private collectors, including the Pinacoteca Civica di Savona and the Fondazione de Mari.

The museum is located in the Monte di Pietà building, founded in 1479 by Pope Sixtus IV, who hailed from Savona. The building underwent a meticulous restoration to conserve its historical features while making it accessible to the public. The restoration aimed to create a dedicated exhibition space for ceramics, a significant artistic craft that has flourished in the Savona and Albissola regions since the late Middle Ages.

Exploring the Museum

Your visit to the Museo della Ceramica begins in the picturesque Piazza Chabrol, at the entrance of the Pinacoteca Civica. The museum is spread across four floors, each offering a unique glimpse into the world of Ligurian ceramics. The exhibition is organized by individual collections and chronological and typological sections, providing a comprehensive narrative of ceramic art's evolution over six centuries.

The journey starts on the second floor, where you'll find the following rooms:

Sala 1: Between Painting and Ceramics

Sala 2: Bartolomeo Guidobono and Baroque Historiated Style

Sala 3: Orientalizing Styles

Sala 4: The Monte di Pietà Palace and Wall and Floor Coverings: The Laggioni

Sala 5: Renaissance Historiated

Sala 6: The Eighteenth Century

Sala 7: Taches Noires and Black Terracotta

Sala 8 and 9: The Prince Boncompagni Ludovisi Collection

Highlights of the Collection

The museum's collection is a testament to the deep-rooted connection between the Savona and Albissola regions and ceramic production. Among the notable collections are the ancient vases from the San Paolo Hospital, the Boncompagni Ludovisi donation, and pieces donated or loaned to the Pinacoteca since 2011, including the Folco and Figliolia collections. The museum also features the Cavanna Pharmacy set, the Bixio collection, and works from the Biennale della Ceramica, created by renowned contemporary artists and designers such as Michelangelo Pistoletto, Adrian Paci, and Yona Friedman.

Styles and Motifs

Ligurian ceramics are celebrated for their distinctive styles and motifs, which have evolved over the centuries. During the 16th century, the art of maiolica flourished, characterized by cobalt blue and later polychrome decorations featuring both Oriental and Western themes. Some of the most famous decorations include:

Antica Savona or Bianco Blu: Introduced by the Guidobono family, this style features chiaroscuro depictions of human figures set in detailed landscapes, often illustrating biblical, mythological, or literary scenes.

Calligrafico Naturalistico: Inspired by Chinese porcelain from the Ming Dynasty, this style features calligraphic strokes and naturalistic subjects such as animals, plants, and landscapes, often in blue monochrome or later in polychrome.

Levantino: This decoration, executed in multiple colors or manganese, includes sketches of tiny figures, animals, and landscape elements.

Boselli: A floral decoration centered around a bouquet dominated by a tulip or rose, complemented by smaller flowers and leaves, often in green monochrome or polychrome hues.

The Exhibition Path

The museum's exhibition path is thoughtfully designed to guide visitors through the rich history of Ligurian ceramics. After exploring the second floor, an elevator takes you to the remaining floors:

Third Floor: Featuring the ancient pharmacy of the San Paolo Hospital, early 20th-century Art Deco and Futurism, and mid-20th-century ceramics.

Fourth Floor: Showcasing ceramics between art and design, and sculptures by Arturo Martini and Agenore Fabbri.

First Floor: Dedicated to the image of Our Lady of Mercy, 19th-century bourgeois home furnishings, the Flavia Folco donation, and 19th-century popular ceramics, including yellow terracotta. This floor also includes a multimedia room for interactive experiences.

In conclusion, the Museo della Ceramica di Savona is more than just a museum; it is a vibrant celebration of the region's artistic heritage. Whether you are a ceramics enthusiast or a casual visitor, this museum offers a captivating journey through time, showcasing the beauty and craftsmanship of Ligurian ceramics. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this cultural gem in the heart of Savona!