Handpainted Ceramic Pocket Tray

We call this a svuotatasche — literally a "pocket emptier" — and it's one of those pieces that earns its place in the house on day one. Our artisans in Vietri sul Mare shape each tray by hand and paint it freehand with a wreath of Mediterranean fruits: lemons, apples, grapes, and peaches, all surrounded by green leaves on a sponged green border. Two sculpted yellow handles sit on either side.

The tray has a gentle boat-like curve to it — the sides sweep upward, which keeps small items from rolling off. From above, it's an oval shape with a white centre and the fruit motif framing the edge. The brushwork is loose and confident, the kind you only get from someone who has painted thousands of these.

Most people use it by the front door for keys and coins, or on a bedside table for jewellery. It also works well on a coffee table for sweets when guests come over. The glaze is smooth and easy to wipe clean.

Every piece is made in small batches by the artisans of Vietri sul Mare. If you look closely, you'll see slight differences in how the fruits are placed or how the green is sponged — that's the hand of the painter, and it's what makes each one individual.