On a recent design adventure in Italy, our Artedomus team learnt about terracotta from one of our most valued Italian collaborators, Cotto Manetti.
The Artedomus team, led by managing director Phil Brenton, was fortunate enough to visit and get to know the family-run company of Cotto Manetti in Ferrone, and immerse ourselves in the art of terracotta.
Cotto Manetti terracotta tiles are renowned for their outstanding durability and variety of colours – from burnt orange to tobacco. The Italian company has worked with Artedomus for more than 12 years, producing terracotta in strict compliance with ancient Impruneta traditions.
The Manetti family has been producing terracotta for eight generations in Ferrone, just south of Florence. Federico Manetti manages the production alongside his father, sister Ginevra Manetti and many artisans.
“As a family, we have been selling tiles since 1780, and have also been making wines since 1968,” notes Federico. It was Ferdinando Manetti who began manufacturing terracotta in Chianti and Impruneta in 1780.
From that time, the family has continued expanding production, with knowledge passed down through the generations. “I think working with family is an honour,” says Ginevra. “And our production is even more special because … Impruneta is one of the most famous districts for terracotta.”
Terracotta from this region is particularly unique as it is created from galestro clay, a mix of clay and calcium carbonate that is rich in iron and, if well-processed, is extremely malleable, dense, elastic and resistant. This is why Manetti terracotta has been made the same way for hundreds of years – the clay not only creates beautiful colours and textures but is incredibly durable, too.
“The beautiful thing about Manetti tiles is that when we say they are handmade, we really mean it,” notes Phil. “They take the clay directly out of the quarry and bring it here [to the factory] where it’s coloured with additives if needed.”
Another significant learning from the trip was seeing the work and craftsmanship of the artisans, and understanding how much they are valued by the company. “Our artisans are part of the heritage at Manetti,” says Federico. “They have deep knowledge and experience, and so any time we want to develop something new, the first thing we do is talk to them.”
The collaboration between Artedomus and Cotto Manetti reflects a harmonious marriage of traditional and contemporary visions. “In our family, we give huge importance to relationships,” reflects Federico. “The connection between our two companies has grown to become a lot more than just a supplier and a customer,” adds Phil.
Production and photography by The Local Project
Like this video? Watch Artedomus’ ultimate Italian design adventure – Episode 1.
