Presentation of the Almaviva studio
Almaviva is a Paris-based studio making tiles and ceramic art-pieces using only manual Renaissance techniques. The clay is stamped by hand and decorations are handpainted with natural oxides. We are artisans mainly commissioned by architects and home designers. We often work for restoration projects since our production closely resembles ancient tile and old ceramic ware.
Our specialties include the artistic design and creation of Delft tiles and murals, azulejo panels, and Italian Renaissance maiolica tiles. We also design and create medieval pavements, Iznik panels, and Islamic tiles.
Our tiles are used for every purpose: swimming pools, hammams and spas, terracotta floors, fireplaces, fountains, and, naturally, bathrooms and kitchens, for backsplashes, countertops, tabletops, etc.
Using original 18th-century moulds, we are also commissioned to make tablewares (plates, platters, tureens, etc.) with initials or coats of arms. We have also often produced copies of various types of apothecary jars: albarelli, canisters, theriaca jars, ewers, etc.
Over the years we have gathered a vast image library of ancient tiles, murals, azulejo panels and maiolica tiles of all periods. These archives are complemented by a further library of engravings, paintings, adornments, etchings, and landscapes. All of these are sources of inspiration that help us create new ceramic works with respect for ancient traditions.
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We have used earthenware frost-resistent tiles for these outside murals. The scenery is inspired by an etching of Piranesi (1720-1778).