DESCRIPTION
The Contrade Porcupine 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 Cups & Saucers are available in all 17 District Designs. The Porcupine (Istrice), for centuries has represented the "Rione dell'Istrice" during the Palio horse race. "Rione" stands for Neighborhood. The Contrade Italian Ceramics are handcrafted in Siena, Italy.
Istrice occupies the north-westernmost edge of Siena and contains the San Vincenzo e Anastasio church, home of the city's oldest surviving fresco and burial place of . Traditionally, its residents were blacksmiths.
Istrice's symbol is a porcupine. Its colours are white, red, blue and black. Istrice’s adversary Contrada is the "Lupa" (She-wolf), since 1934. Allied Contradas are "Bruco", "Chiocciola", "Civetta" and "Giraffa".
Its motto is: "Sol per difesa io pungo" (I prick only for self-defense).
Istrice has the title of Contrada Sovrana (Sovereign Contrada). It was bestowed this title by the as a result of it headquartering the order during the 14th century. The Templars Mansion is located in its territory in Via Malta.
Istrice last won the Palio in July 2008.
The small differences in color, shape, diameter or small bubbles that form inside, do not constitute a defect but testify that it is actually an artisanal product.
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.