The Capo di Monte porcelain factory was established by King Charles III of Naples, and installed in the palace of Capo di Monte in 1743. It continued in operation till 1759, when Charles III succeeded to the throne of Spain and left Naples.

This porcelain factory was of incredible interest to the King. According to historians, tradition says that he often worked in it with his own hands. At the annual fair in the piazza before the palace, the products of the factory had their own special stall to sell these pieces of artwork. The King made certain to be given a daily list with each of the sales made and the names of the purchasers.

When Charles left Naples in 1759 he took with him to Madrid the best models and molds, and about forty of the most skillful workmen. However, from 1759 to 1771 operations were suspended.

Then, King Ferdinand IV re-established the works in the Villa Reale at Portici. In 1773 the factory was again moved and set up in Naples, where it continued to work under State direction and support until 1807, when it was sold to a commercial corporation. It was ultimately closed in 1821.

A final interesting detail to note is the markings the artisans used to designate each piece as Capo. One may find the original Bourbon fleur-de-lis, impressed in the paste or painted in blue in early pieces. In pieces of the later periods one may find an “N,” usually surmounted by a crown and commonly in blue, but which could be red or simply impressed in the paste. Actually, the very first Capo is generally unmarked and the flesh tints are delicately soft. Only a trained eye can confirm or deny authenticity.

Click here to see some of our featured Capo pieces.