The large and heterogeneous family of Fornasetti vases by Bitossi Ceramiche is growing. All are offsprings of Piero and Barnaba Fornasetti and born from the same idea: a chalk mould of a vase designed by Piero in the 50's, which never made it's way into production, and was later found in the cellar by his son Barnaba. This 'theme' has been used for the copious 'Variations' which appear to be endless in numbers. There are subtle changes made to every single decoration or form, as if all the members of this family had a natural inclination to disguise an elegant veiled humour.

The DNA is indisputably Fornasetti, it is impossible not to take notice how every single vase actually owns a personality, and indeed a nickname such as: Ciccio (Chubby), Smilzo (Skinny), Bitorzolo (Lumpy), Flora, l'Antipatico (The Unpleasant).

Barnaba Fornasetti experienced the artful skill and creativity of Bitossi Ceramiche through its craftsmen, that was both creative and stimulating. This in turn led him to intervene on some with colours, finishes and textures and on others he revelled in playing with shapes, even finding various practical uses as for the table, the teapot or the lamp for example.

The choice of edition ( a limited edition, one-off piece or prototype) was dictated not so much from commercial needs but from real practical issues of the ceramic workmanship to create the piece itself . Fortunately these issues didn't hold back the development of new ideas or the birth of new vases.