This website is dedicated to showing the work of ceramic artist Mary R Schirmer. It also provides educational information on the type of ceramic known as maiolica or majolica.

Artist Statement

I specialize in functional hand painted Renaissance style ceramics. My ceramic work is based on my research of classic Italian designs of the 15th and 16th centuries. It includes both original designs inspired by common historic motifs and designs which are copies of Renaissance museum pieces. I am a potter as well as a decorator. I primarily decorate my own hand made ceramic pottery. I also hand paint commercially made blank tiles and tableware.

Educational Information

Maiolica is a type of clay earthenware covered with an opaque white tin based glaze. This type of pottery was especially popular in Italy during the Renaissance although it was produced in other Westeren European countries. This ceramic decorative technique is also known by the names majolica, faience, and delft.

More information about maiolica can be found in the Maiolica Informatory. This section of the site includes:

• An overview of the decorative process
• Information about the history of maiolica
• Images of historical works
• Resources for additional research including: a detailed bibliography, links, and educational opportunities
• Supply list for making maiolica
• Tutorials to get started with painting maiolica
• Information specifically for historical re-enactors