When was the Rubboli pottery factory founded?
In 1873, when my great-grandfather Paolo decided to open a pottery workshop. The company grew in prestige in the 1920s, employing over 80 workers. The secrets of the trade were passed on from father to son, and my mother did the same with me, provided that I finished my university studies.
What is special about the lustreware technique?
It was developed in the 9th century in the area now occupied by Iran and Iraq. It consists of applying special pastes over the glazed surface of majolica that is then fired for the third time. The result is an iridescent, metallic finish. The firing is done in a reduction kiln, without oxygen.
© Laila Pozzo
Who brought this technique to Italy?
The technique was introduced to Italy by the Medici family, but it disappeared completely in the 17th century. It was revived only after Italian unification, when the government recovered the traditions of the regions in an attempt to create a national identity.
Is there something that still surprises you after so many years?
Always, and it happens every morning when I open the kiln at the end of the firing. When you work without oxygen, the result is always different, because it depends on many factors, including the weather. So you never know what the final result will be.