Domenico Pinto, a master of terracotta hailing from the heart of Grottaglie's historic ceramics quarter, presents a captivating ceramic horse that embodies the rich folklores and cultural iconography of the "pugliese" tradition. Pinto seamlessly weaves together symbols of the moon, doves, flowers, and sun, imbuing this sculpture with a sense of both the sacred and the everyday.
The horse, adorned with intricate quilted patterns and delicate details, features a striking element: a stylized depiction of waves and a mythical, masked woman emerging from the waves. These additions further enhance the work's connection to local folklore and Pinto's exploration of the feminine divine. The masked woman is rendered in similar colors of the waves and with a golden aura. It reflects Pinto's extraordinary technical ability and tireless exploration of Grottaglie's ceramic heritage. Its holy and derelict face, though motionless, exudes a quiet vitality, inviting viewers to unlock their own secret sensitivities and discover the poetry within the ordinary.
As with much of Pinto's work, this ceramic horse invites us to reflect on the gleam of our special everyday life, rendered in a style that has earned him international acclaim and a place in collections worldwide, including the Vatican. The piece is signed "D. Pinto Grottaglie," marking its origin and the artist's deep connection to the region.
Grottaglie, Italy
2024
