Manifattura Chini Biography
The Chini ceramic activity began in the last decade of the 19th century, thanks to the work of Galileo Chini who, together with some partners, founded the "L'Arte della Ceramica" factory in Florence in 1896. A short time later, Chino, Pietro, Guido and Augusto, Galileo's cousins, joined the factory. The factory's production, characterized by a brand depicting a pomegranate, stood out for its early signs of modernity and obtained prestigious recognition in national and international exhibitions, such as the Turin exhibitions of 1898 and 1902, and the Universal Exhibition of Paris in 1900. The ceramics were designed by Galileo, usually taking inspiration from Art Nouveau floral motifs; often we also find female figures that show clear influences of Botticelli's schemes. After leaving “The Art of Ceramics”, Galileo and Chino Chini founded the “Fornaci San Lorenzo” factory in Borgo San Lorenzo, near Florence, in 1906. The new factory produces refined majolica, often characterized by a metallic luster covering and original examples of stoneware. In 1943, the factory was destroyed by an air raid but was rebuilt thanks to the exceptional commitment of Augusto Chini. In 1956, the factory transformed into "Franco Pecchioli Ceramiche", where Augusto held the position of artistic director until the 1970s, when he was replaced by his son Vieri. Currently, Vieri's sons, Mattia and Cosimo, continue to work in the company.
