A history rooted in the 1600s.
The history of Cotto Ref is written on the statues, fountains, and vases—reproductions cast in past centuries from the original pieces.
Our collection, the most prestigious in the world with over 3,000 items, represents the very best of human craftsmanship.
This great tradition lives on today in our splendid artistic terracotta pieces—always meticulously crafted and handmade—which Cotto Ref continues to produce and export worldwide, as well as in our premium flooring.
Handcrafted Production
The mastery of our artisans and the type of clay used ensure products of the highest quality. Thanks to the exclusive use of Impruneta clay, our terracotta products are resistant to frost and all types of weather.
Our Story
Through the Centuries
1660
Foundation
- In 1660, Angiolo Ricceri arrived in Impruneta. Right in the Marsiliana area—on land where the clay (galestro) was, and still is, at its purest and most intact—he founded the company whose name would become famous worldwide. The Ancient Ricceri Manufactory of Impruneta initially produced handmade bricks, floor tiles, roof tiles, and soon after, splendid ornamental garden terracotta and inimitable jars (orci), showcasing the superb craftsmanship of the 17th-century master jar-makers.
1850
Production
- The production of terracotta sculptures reached its peak around the mid-19th century.
1940
The Brunori Family & Company Transformation
- After conquering European markets, partly thanks to the success of its fine terracotta, the manufactory entered a new phase, specializing in flooring production. With the arrival of the Brunori family, the company consolidated its role as a benchmark in terracotta manufacturing.
1995
The Parretti Family
- In 1995, however, the company took on an increasingly international dimension under new ownership. The Parretti family acquired the business, giving further impulse to its growth: production plants were modernized and the commercial structure was strengthened to actively meet the growing demand for terracotta flooring.
Our Story
Through the Centuries
1660
Foundation
In 1660, Angiolo Ricceri arrived in Impruneta. Right in the Marsiliana area—on land where the clay (galestro) was, and still is, at its purest and most intact—he founded the company whose name would become famous worldwide. The Ancient Ricceri Manufactory of Impruneta initially produced handmade bricks, floor tiles, roof tiles, and soon after, splendid ornamental garden terracotta and inimitable jars (orci), showcasing the superb craftsmanship of the 17th-century master jar-makers.
1850
Production
The production of terracotta sculptures reached its peak around the mid-19th century.
1940
The Brunori Family
The Brunori Family & Company Transformation:
After conquering European markets, partly thanks to the success of its fine terracotta, the manufactory entered a new phase, specializing in flooring production. With the arrival of the Brunori family, the company consolidated its role as a benchmark in terracotta manufacturing.
1995
The Parretty Family
In 1995, however, the company took on an increasingly international dimension under new ownership. The Parretti family acquired the business, giving further impulse to its growth: production plants were modernized and the commercial structure was strengthened to actively meet the growing demand for terracotta flooring.
