Hand-painted Ceramic "Balboa Maiolica" Hold-all

I've had this beautiful cup in stock for a while, but I love it so much and took some time to enjoy seeing it amongst our treasures. It's hand-painted and in perfect nick. The base glaze is quite textured which I love, and the piece has been finished with a pretty and colourful floral image on each side. The base is marked "Balboa Maiolica, hand-painted, Italy 224/771". The term "maiolica" refers to the style of the piece which originated in Italy - basically it's fine earthenware with coloured decoration on an opaque white tin glaze - as you see, the piece is true to its roots. The style dates to the Renaissance, but continues to be produced in Italy and elsewhere (where it has become known as "Majolica"). I think this beauty would make an excellent desk-top pen holder, but also a bathroom caddy for toothbrushes or make-up.