About De Rosa Art

De Rosa figurines are unique works of ceramic art designed by Uruguayan artisans and craftsmen. Founded by Jorge De Rosa Thompson in 1975, the De Rosa Rinconada factory in Montevideo produces some of the world's finest hand-crafted ceramics. These figurines are carefully designed by hand from clay and hand painted with colorful enamels, gold and platinum to give each piece its own distinct style. No two pieces are identical..

Once a Master Design is approved for a particular De Rosa figurine, a mold is made and filled with liquid ceramic. After it becomes semi-dry, the figurine's form is removed from the mold and must then be hand-carved before the moist ceramic hardens. This is when the artisans add the unique texture, detail and personality to each De Rosa piece.

When the carving is completely finished the figurine is ready for its first kiln firing. After cooling and setting, it will be hand-painted with colorful ceramic slips and bright enamel glazes.

When the hand-painting is completed each figurine must again be fired in the kiln. Ceramic glazes reach their final colors at different temperatures, so often many firings are required. Some designs may be fired up to five or six times to achieve the desired result.

The final step in the design of a De Rosa figurine is the application of 18-karat gold and platinum to its intricately carved designs. These precious metals accent the personality of the figurines, and distinguish the De Rosa Collection as a source of some of the most sought-after pieces in the world of hand-crafted ceramic design.