Historic Reference of Majolica

The English term 'Majolica' is a derivative of the Italian 
word 'Maiolica', having been borrowed originally from the island of Mallorca (Majorca) off the east coast of Spain.

The genesis of the style began early under Andalusian
influence from the ninth through the thirteenth centuries. Most important was the tin enameled pottery exported to Italy at the beginning of the Renaissance that began 'Maiolica'. The Italian designs depicted classical scenes of mythological, biblical and military themes.

During the nineteenth century the English, prompted 
by the 1851 Crystal Palace Exhibition, effected a full revival of the 'Majolica' ware with a cultural redefinition that more reflected the English lifestyles (i.e., horticultural, countryside and naturalistic themes). The Victorians also incorporated exaggerated depictions of exotic cultures (e.g., Egyptian, Islamic and African).

The English majolica innovators, Minton and Arnoux, 
developed the distinctive nineteenth century glazes that set them apart from the early Maoilica. Their color palette expanded beyond the early muted Mediterranean hues incorporating a brighter polychrome approach. Luminous, brilliant purity of color defined the English ware.