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Tuscan Design Center > Tuscan Decorating Elements
A Tuscan Design Center Featured Article - Focus on Tuscany By Diane Hendrickson Tuscan Decorating Element -Earth
Of the basic Tuscan elements, earth is perhaps the most dominant and apparent in Tuscan society. Indeed, the rich Tuscan clay has been incorporated in some way into every building across the region. From the characteristic terracotta rooftops down to the floor, Tuscany is thoroughly infused with the element of earth. Terracotta- meaning earth (terra) that is fired or baked (cotta), has been used for centuries in Tuscany, dating back to the Etruscans who used the clay for pottery and building. Some examples of their artistic work are still available for viewing, and have been used by artisans for centuries as inspiration.
This durability, economical cost, and ease of transport made clay tiles and bricks an attractive building material for ancient Tuscans. Entire cities, such as Siena, are comprised mainly of brick, as well as numerous casa colonica (Italian farmhouses) dotting the rolling countryside. Terracotta has played an important role especially in the Tuscan kitchen, where olive oil and wine have been stored in clay vessels for centuries. The terracotta protects the olive oil from heat and light, which reduces spoilage.
Since the about the fifteenth century, Tuscany has been producing a wide variety of majolica items, from beautiful and utilitarian plates to floor tiles. Although majolica was once exclusive and expensive to own, it is now commonplace to find this beloved folk art in and around the homes of Tuscany. Because
of the superior durability of the Tuscan terracotta, the decorative clay pots,
window boxes, statues and orcio (pitchers) are a favorite in Tuscan gardens.
Filled with a wide variety of brightly colored
Perfectly infused in the Tuscan lifestyle, the ever-present element of earth is testimony to the centuries old love affair between the people of Tuscany, and their environment.
Coming Soon!
Decorating in the Tuscan style can be fun & easy! The "Designer-In-You" Home Decor System will show you how.
You can also check out the beautiful book Tuscan Elements by Alexandra Black. Click on this Tuscan Decor Books link to purchase.
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The
heart of the ancient Italian pottery industry was in a town near Florence. Remarkably, the
terracotta ovens and kilns have been in production almost continuously since the
times of the Etruscans. Considered by many to be the finest terracotta in
Tuscany, the skilled artisans reproduce many of the ancient designs out of a
unique clay rich in limestone. The fired clay is extremely durable and
resistant to the elements. 
Made
from the same clay as terracotta, another main staple of most Tuscan kitchens is
the beautiful tin glazed and hand painted ceramics known as majolica.
Commonly decorated in brilliant blues, greens, yellows, and oranges these lovely
pieces are beautifully and practically used for storage, on the table as
dinnerware, and as decorative art. 
flowers, the decorative
containers are found across the countryside adorning windowsills, courtyards,
and loggias, and bring a welcome splash of outdoor cheer to virtually any space.
