Tognana porcelain is fired at high temperatures at the manufacturer's factory in Casier, northern Italy, giving excellent resistance to scratching and abrasion. Dish feet are polished to avoid scratching, and the rims are glazed for maximum durability and stain prevention.
John Artis's 2008 catalogue features four ranges from Tognana.
Nero is finished with a distinctive highly polished black glaze. Pieces may be used on their own or matched with white tableware for an eye-catching contrast. Nero is available in three different plate sizes, with a soup plate, tea and espresso cups and saucers.
The Graffiti range is characterised by an original relief of thin concentric lines running around the rim of the dish in stark contrast to the smooth central area. Although fully glazed to avoid staining, Graffiti takes on a matt appearance. It is available in round, oval, coupe and well plates, in addition to small and medium-sized cups and saucers.
Omni is a collection of 18 unusual contemporary pieces including slanting oval bowls, tear bowls, rhombus plates and a triangular bowl.
Enigma is made from Alutec porcelain, which gives it exceptional whiteness as well as excellent resistance to shock, chipping and abrasion. Again, Italian flair is displayed in the shapes in the collection, which include an "inoval" plate, tidbit bowl and a half-moon plate designed to pair with the oval plate.
To buy it, call 020 8391 5544John Artis