The hand-turned, hand-painted Ikiperu collection fuses Etruscan vase-making with contemporary design in homage to the artistic tradition of Umbria. The first work by Norwegian designer Kristine Five Melvær for Poltrona Frau, the ceramics collection unites history, traditional craftsmanship, and modern aesthetics that reference Picenian culture through color and shape. The pieces – a vase, cup, and pyx – are produced by renown Umbria-based manufacturer Rometti Ceramiche, the epitome of local art tradition and Etruscan vase-making.

“Ikiperu” was the name of the goddess Cupra, who was worshiped by the ancient Piceni and Etruscans. The name means “she who protects the land,” and recalls rituals of protection and prosperity of agricultural and manual activities. Poltrona Frau honors the artistic and cultural heritage of the area in the name as well as in the choice of the main material – ceramic – which is locally-sourced, and in the rounded shapes of the objects. These archetypal forms and color choices are imbued with the design language, the ceramics itself synonymous with timelessness and versatility.

Three pieces make up the Ikiperu collection: the Ikiperu Vase, Ikiperu Cup, and Ikiperu Pyx. The vase features a rounded shape with five horizontal bands that are both glazed and unglazed for a tactile finish. The cup works to hold small objects or simply as a decorative element. The design again incorporates horizontal bands, in this case the upper rim uses unglazed ceramic, while the central band and base are glazed. Pyx is a small, round box with a lid and leather cord for easy opening – and a nice nod to Poltrona Frau’s style. The shades used throughout the Ikiperu collection are inspired by the color palette of Pelle Frau® leather: cool Blue Sky and warm Earth Brown tones.

To learn more about the Ikiperu Collection, visit poltronafrau.com.