THE WORLD OF TERRACOTTA
18 May 2016
For centuries terracotta has proven itself a valuable material for everything from roof tiles to pots. Ian Lyell Design’s range of Italian terracotta continues this tradition, proving to be as durable as they are beautiful.
The Italian word terracotta means “Baked Earth” and comes from the Latin word Terra Cocta. Terracotta both in history and in today’s marketplace is still widely used for various vessels, sculptures and architectural pieces, in particular garden pots.
Ian Lyell Design has been importing and designing authentic Italian terracotta pieces for over 20 years. Their range of stunning terracotta products in natural and mocha grey shades come in selections of both glazed and unglazed finishes in designs from around the world.
GALESTRO
Galestro - a special soil comprised of loose marl and limestone - originates from a region close to Florence in the Tuscan hills of Italy. The clay found in this region is considered the best in the world due to the presence of Galestro. After being fired at 1000 – 1030 degrees for up to 36 hours, the clay is left to cool for a further 70 hours. The finished product results in a mechanical strength that is frost resistance to 20 degrees below zero.
The grainy surface of the fired product takes on a beautiful reddish colour with white shades, synonymous with Tuscany. Today colour variations are achieved using additives, in order to meet global demand for diversity, without compromising the integrity of the Galestro.
EARTHENWARE POTTERY
Earthenware pottery is clay based and is also referred to as terracotta. When fired, the colour varies from a natural brown through to orange colourings, and can be glazed or unglazed. This form of terracotta has been used by artisans all around the world to create the diversity of stunning pieces found across all cultures.
Ian Lyell Design works closely with its artisans from various regions in the world stemming from Italy to Asia, to both produce and source individual and unique products of this beautiful, natural material. They offer landscape architects, designers or avid gardeners something different for that special project.
You can view the Ian Lyell Design range of products at Factory 4, 59-61 Hudson’s Road, Spotswood, Melbourne, or visit www.ianlyell.com
P | +613 9399 1006
E | ild@ianlyell.com.au
