Pasquale Rubati

PASQUALE RUBATI (Italy, 1750 - 1785).
Dish ca. 1760 - 1780.
Enameled and decorated earthenware "allo struzzo".
It has a break in the upper left side.
Measurements: 23 cm (diameter).

Circular fine earthenware dish, decorated in "allo struzzo" style, a technique characteristic of Pasquale Rubati's workshop in Milan during the second half of the 18th century. Enameled in milky white, with delicate cobalt blue motifs applied with a brush, forming a landscape scene with idealized vegetation and animals, all in a loose and elegant line.

The term "allo struzzo" refers to the peculiar pictorial style used in this technique, with fine, wavy lines, reminiscent of ostrich feathers (struzzo, in Italian). This denomination was consolidated as distinctive of the works coming out of Rubati's workshop, although it was also adopted in other ceramic centers in northern Italy.

Pasquale Rubati was one of the most refined and technically innovative ceramists of the Italian 18th century. Active in Milan between 1750 and 1785, his workshop specialized in the production of fine glazed earthenware, which stood out both for the elegance of its forms and the originality of its decorations.

The success of his production contributed to the prestige of Lombard ceramics, which during the 18th century competed with the manufactories of Lodi, Pavia and other northern Italian cities. Rubati's works were highly valued by the local nobility and today are preserved in private collections and museums specializing in European ceramics. His legacy endures as a testimony to the artistic richness of 18th century Italian ceramics, especially in its ability to combine technique, functionality and aesthetics with a clear influence of French and Central European decorative trends.