Wine Cistern 1553

Francesco Durantino's "Wine Cistern" (1553), on display at the Art Institute of Chicago, is a stunning example of Italian maiolica, a type of tin-glazed pottery. The piece is a large, round bowl, with a wide, decorated rim and a foot. The entire surface is covered in vibrant imagery, depicting a scene of a sea battle and other mythological figures. The painting style is characteristic of Durantino's work, using bright colors and detailed brushwork to bring the narrative to life. This cistern, made for practical use but elevated to a work of art, showcases the beauty of Italian craftsmanship during the Renaissance.