Molaroni: a faithful gesture
Full article by Lorenzo Luzi on RaiNews.it
"Ceramiche Molaroni: the faithful gesture" at Casa Bucci — until January 10th
The exhibition celebrating a Pesaro tradition. Molaroni at Casa Bucci
A selection from the private Molaroni collection tells the story of the continuity of Pesaro majolica. Free entry, guided weekend tours by reservation.
The exhibition "Ceramiche Molaroni: the faithful gesture" opens at Casa Bucci, a journey that traces almost a century and a half of history of the renowned Pesaro manufactory, from the late nineteenth century to today. On display are vases, plates, and amphorae from the private collection of the Molaroni family: a tribute to the tradition of Pesaro, City of Ceramics, and to Italian ceramics.
The project also represents a generational transition: two thirty-year-olds—Pierleone Molaroni and Tommaso Bartolucci (Franco Bucci's grandson)—bring hands and design back to the center of laboratory work, through small series, customizations, and research into glazes and techniques.
Curated by Viviana Bucci and promoted by the Cultural Association Società dell’Uso, with the support of the Marche Region, the patronage of the Municipality of Pesaro, and the collaboration of the Friends of Pesaro Ceramics, the exhibition creates a dialogue between two histories—different in style but similar in the spirit of the object's use: the historical production of Molaroni and the design and experimental legacy of Franco Bucci.
«Many are surprised: Molaroni and my father Franco Bucci seem distant, but the connections are there — the objects tell their story,» explains curator Viviana Bucci.
«Buying and leaving something in a display case is a partial experience: our ceramics can be used,» adds Pierleone Molaroni, now in the workshop after studying design and spending years in digital.
The factory founded by Vincenzo Molaroni in 1880 played a decisive role in the revival of majolica between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, receiving international recognition (including its presence at the Paris Universal Exposition of 1900). This tradition continues and renews itself under the banner of artisanal quality, explains Federico Malaventura, one of the leading experts on the history of Pesaro ceramics.