VIETRI—Celebrating 40 years
Vietri sul Mare (image via joujoutravels.com)
My morning ritual starts with a cup of coffee in a wonderfully hand crafted mug by VIETRI. There is something about the shape of the mug and the feel of it in my hands that makes me happy. The name, VIETRI, has become synonymous with fine Italian ceramic dinnerware and decor and for good reason. This distinctive line of pottery, made entirely by hand in Italy, all began with a trip by Lee Gravely and her daughters, Susan and Frances, to Positano, Italy, more than 40 years ago~
“During their stay at the San Pietro Hotel in Positano, they went to lunch and found themselves captivated by the hotel's colorful, handcrafted dinnerware. The next day they arranged to meet the artisans at a nearby factory in the town of Vietri sul Mare. As they watched the artisans paint, glaze, and fire each piece by hand, they were inspired to share the treasure they had discovered. The Gravelys returned home with an array of pieces with mixed patterns all related to nature. The collection would become known as Campagna, VIETRI's flagship dinnerware.”
Artisans have been producing ceramics in Vietri sul Mare since the 15th century and the colors of the Amalfi Coast are reflected in many of the pieces made there—including an imaginative painted majolica wall adorning a local shop. It is easy to understand the Gravely’s fascination with this village and how it inspired them, but there is much more to the VIETRI brand.
Painted majolica on the walls of the city of Vietri sul mare.
At the heart of VIETRI is the desire to celebrate relationships through “the simple act of sharing a meal—savoring one another’s company and keeping sacred the time spent around the table.” Cherishing the moments that bring joy to our lives, the beauty of the Italian countryside comes to life in their designs as it is “made with the very soil of it.“ As you peruse their creations, it is quite easy to imagine the many gatherings and conversations made all the more special by their wares.
If the story of the Gravely family and their purposeful designs have piqued your interest, I have great news for you—our upcoming estate sale has a pretty nice stash of VIETRI pieces!! The sale begins on Friday, June 9, and more details will be coming soon. To stay informed, subscribe to our email list and check back here for preview pictures. Meanwhile, enjoy your time around the table with family and friends.