Richard Ginori - Traditional Production Processes

Richard Ginori - Wednesday, June 1st, 2011

Traditional production processes at the Richard Ginori manufactory

The Doccia porcelain manufactory, Richard Ginori, formerly known as Doccia Porcelain, was founded in 1735 by Carlo Ginori. Our visit gave us a glimpse of its long and rich history, being the first European factory of porcelain that has been in operation since 1737. 

The most exciting part was when we got to see the manufacturing process in action. Prior to stepping foot into the factory, and considering the huge developments in technology from the past few decades, one would think that their processes would have altered considerably. However, the very opposite applies. Richard Ginori has maintained their traditional methods of moulding and applying decorations to their products. Almost all applications of decoration are applied by hand, a skill that takes over 10 years worth of experience and training to achieve the quality that the company exhibits. It's no wonder a single ceramic plate could cost up to 1,000 euros! Just as the deco are applied by hand, moulding roses (as illustrated in the video above) is also done in a specific way so that the final product will pertain to the image the company holds. The production of these beautiful pieces will always be done via traditional methods, as claimed by the curator of the Richard Ginori museum, Oliva Rucellai. At the end of the day, I can only admire the skills of the employees and their amazing level of patience in maintaining such traditional practices.

- Alan, Michelle, Lindsay

Keywords: Tradition, Experience