Enzo Zago since 1960

In Strada ( Chianti ) , a few kilometers from the town of Impruneta, home of the traditional Cotto-Fiorentino, Lees Enzo Zago Terracotte, one of the most prestigious companies specializing in the production of artistic terracotta. The company operates the Antica Fornace Ricceri and has been 1960 by Raffaele Zago founded. After his retirement, his son Enzo the management, renewal and expansion of the company. Today "Enzo Zago" Terracotta, synonymous with quality and prestige, is very proud to adorn some of the most exclusive hotels and country inns in Italy, Europe, the United States and Japan.

The gesture is as old as humanity itself: The mixing of earth, sand and water which makes them change their "state" to a malleable material. Once ready to shape, the result is infinite many possibilities. The remaining elements of air and fire make the handicraft complete. By firing, they give the shape its strength and robustness.

One of the most difficult moments in the working cycle of the clay is: the earth is brought out of the pit dug up, to beat in the same way and to sieve.

After firing, the handmade pieces were immersed in water, which gives the items a high Frost resistance.

The importance of our craftsmanship is to find the balance between Tradition and Innovation .

All steps in the production of terracotta

1.       Preparation of the form and dispersion of the talc powder

2.       Filling the mold with clay

3.       Fine work of the clay mold

4.       The first dehydration

5.       Mold Acceptance

6.       Precision finished exclusively by hand

7.       Dehydration ( approx. 10 days )

8.       The pieces are finally ready for burning

9.       The firing takes place at a temperature of over 1000C degrees for about 72 hours in the oven.

10.     The final stage of manufacturing: water bath for frost resistance