It is a kind of amphora, but with a fuller-bodied shape and more ornate decorations.

The orcio has a substantial, rotund shape. It is usually characterised by two or more bands embracing its generous belly. There are two handles on the upper part and the belly can be covered in decorations, festoons or plaques indicating the craftsman who produced the piece.

It is thought to have first appeared in the historical residences of the noble families of cities such as Florence and Siena around 1600. An object that was undoubtedly used as a garden ornament but also, in the case of its close relative the ziro, to hold oil.

The ziro had a more slender shape and was glazed on the inside to hold oil. The decorations were often limited to raised bands that served a practical function.  These bands made it possible to lift and move the object by guaranteeing a better grip.

We can now say that the classical Tuscan orcio is a unique object that epitomises all the tradition and history of Tuscan terracotta.

Premiata Fabbrica di terrecotte e tubi in gres Ezio Benocci e fratelli Petroio Provincia di Siena
Croce al Merito e Medaglia d’oro

The Benocci family, owner of one of the oldest companies in the Siena area, has worked in the sector since around the 18^th century. From 1840, the company was run by Eustachio Benocci.

Later (1912-1945), he was succeeded by Ezio Benocci and his brothers, who went on to produce  vases, grès pipes, siphons, mercury condensers and pots in the period straddling the two world wars.

A pot type whose shape and size was suited to this new festoon was soon devised.  A simple pot with a thick rim, prestigious finishings and a broad base to lend good stability. The lemons are applied just beneath the rim and run all the way around the pot, to give it a unique elegance. The first model has a diameter of 48 cm and was followed, in 1997, by five further sizes: 30, 36, 42, 54 and 60 cm. The S70 and S80 models were introduced the following year.

The Conca Limoni style has been imitated repeatedly through the years, however the original has never been superseded.

Still in production today, Conca Limoni remains a Terrecotte Benocci classic.