The Earliest Maiolica Ceramic Dishes in the Old Town in Vilnius

Archaeological analysis of maiolica ceramic dishes from the late 16th and early 17th centuries in Vilnius' Old Town reveals their production origins, providing new insights into the rarity and cultural significance of these items during a period when they served both aesthetic and luxury functions. Five plates were traced to Antwerp, one to Faenza (Italy), and another fragment to Liguria or Venice, based on technical and stylistic characteristics. Notably, three plates featured holes for wall hanging, indicating their dual role as decorative and functional objects. The study also links four dishes to Catholic monasteries, deepening our understanding of maiolica's role in Vilnius' daily life during this era.

Urbonaitė-Ubė, M. (2015). The Earliest Maiolica Ceramic Dishes in the Old Town in Vilnius. Archaeologia Baltica, 21-22, 163–173. https://doi.org/10.15181/ab.v1i0.1144