DESCRIPTION
The Contrade Eagle Design Espresso Cup and Saucer, is handmade, painted with 24 karat gold and imported from Italy. During the Renaissance, Italian cities were partitioned into districts or neighborhoods called Contrade to supply troops to the military. Today, the most celebrated Contrade are of Siena, where 17 Contrade, each represented by a symbol or animal, compete in the Piazza del Campo for pride and the glory of winning in a biannual horse race called the Palio di Siena, which dates back to 1656.
Contrade Italian Espresso Cup and Saucer is available in all 17 District Designs. The Eagle (Aquila), for centuries has represented the "Rione dell'Aquila" during the Palio horse race. "Rione" stands for Neighborhood. The Contrade Italian Ceramics are handcrafted in Siena, Italy.
Aquila is situated immediately to the south-west of the in the centre of the city, and is home to the duomo (cathedral). Traditionally, its residents were .
Their last victory was on July 3, 1992 (Andrea de Gortes 'Vinegar' on Galleggiante). They have had 24 official victories.
Aquila's symbol is a double-headed black eagle holding an orb, a sword, and a sceptre. Its colours are yellow, trimmed with blue and black.
Aquila is one of only four nobile (noble) contrade; its title was bestowed by the emperor , out of gratitude for the warm reception he received there in 1536.
The contrada's museum is home to the oldest surviving (also called a palio), which dates from 1719.
Aquila's patron saint is La Vergine (the name of the Most Holy Maria). Her titulary festival is celebrated on 8 September.
They are allied to the Civetta (Owl) and Drago (Dragon) contrade. They are opposed to the Pantera (Panther) contrada, since 1947.
ARTISAN STORY
Santa Caterina Siena 24kt Espresso Cups & Saucers
Ceramiche S. Caterina, established in 1949 in Siena, has a rich legacy in ceramics. Founded by Marcello Neri, who took ownership in 1961, the studio has become a hallmark of quality craftsmanship, blending traditional techniques with contemporary artistry. Marcello, a Siena native and graduate of the Institute of Art, honed his skills under Fausto Corsini and further developed his craft in Montelupo Fiorentino. Fabio, son of Marcello now paints for Santa Caterina.
Their pieces have been presented as gifts to President Bill Clinton, Emperor Akihito, and Pope John Paul II, cementing their status as prominent cultural ambassadors for Italian art.