Cinzia Chiulli
The ancient "Zaffera" technique
Cinzia Chiulli is a contemporary Italian ceramist based in Viterbo, whose work bridges the historical legacy of ceramic art with modern sensibility.
Deeply rooted in the traditions of central Italy, Chiulli has developed a distinctive artistic voice through her exploration and revival of ancient techniques, particularly the "zaffera a rilievo."
Zaffera is a decorative method that dates back to the 15th century, characterized by raised cobalt blue motifs applied onto maiolica surfaces. This technique, also known as "a foglia di quercia" or "a goccioloni," creates a striking contrast between glossy blue designs and the white ceramic background. Chiulli masterfully adapts this historical process, preserving its expressive depth while infusing it with her personal artistic language.
In her studio in Viterbo, Chiulli not only continues this centuries-old tradition but also reinvents it, producing ceramics that are both timeless and contemporary. Through her work, she celebrates the material, the gesture, and the cultural memory embedded in each handcrafted piece.
Cinzia's crafts
Candelabro "Zaffera" - "Zaffera" Chandelier
Maiolica chandelier decorated with traditional zaffera technique.
Crafted by Cinzia Chiulli @Viterbo, a medieval town in center Italy.
Viterbo, known for its well preserved historic center and ancient thermal bath, is rich in Etruscan and papal history and offers a unique blend of art, architecture, and tradition.
Its vibrant artisan culture continues to inspire passionate creatives like Cinzia.
Dimensions (approx.): 35 cm hight x 5 cm (max diameter). Dimensions are indicative, variations of approximately 10% to be expected due to hand craft artisanal process.
Plate - The Etruscan Lady
Maiolica plate depicting the figure of an Etruscan lady.
Crafted by Cinzia Chiulli @Viterbo, a medieval town in center Italy.
Viterbo, known for its well preserved historic center and ancient thermal bath, is rich in Etruscan and papal history and offers a unique blend of art, architecture, and tradition.
Its vibrant artisan culture continues to inspire passionate creatives like Cinzia.
Dimensions (approx.): 40 cm diameter. Variations of approximately 10% to be expected due to hand craft artisanal process.
Plate - The Tree of Life
Maiolica plate decorated with traditional zaffera technique.
Crafted by Cinzia Chiulli @Viterbo, a medieval town in center Italy.
Viterbo, known for its well preserved historic center and ancient thermal bath, is rich in Etruscan and papal history and offers a unique blend of art, architecture, and tradition.
Its vibrant artisan culture continues to inspire passionate creatives like Cinzia.
Dimensions (approx.): 40 cm diameter. Dimensions are indicative, variations of approximately 10% to be expected due to hand craft artisanal process.