NEAPOLITAN SOUVENIRS
1.Coral and Cameos
The tradition of miniature carvings in stone is an ancient one – the Romans (and their Renaissance imitators) used precious and semiprecious stones, from agate to emerald, as well as layered glass. Today the tradition (for further details see Villa Campolieto) primarily focuses on gems from the sea. Coral is prized for its rich colours and soft texture, while shells are fashioned into delicate cameos.
2.Handmade Paper and Cards
Amalfi was once home to a thriving paper industry, which features at the Museo della Carta. The tradition is still on display in local shops selling handmade paper, stationery and beautiful journals.
3.Antiques
The area remains one of the great sources for antiques; especially plentiful are Baroque and Rococo furniture, as well as Empire pieces. Antique ceramics, too, are a good buy, notably handpainted tiles.
Shopping for antiques in Naples
4.Copies of Antiquities
Believe it or not, souvenir stalls outside archaeological sites – notably Pompeii – can be good sources of creditable copies of famous Roman sculptures, but you’ll need to pick through the junk and be prepared to bargain.
5.Ceramics
Ceramics – both copies of traditional designs and original creations – are notable in Capri, Ravello and Vietri.
A traditional ceramic plate
6.Gouaches
Gouache is a watercolour paint applied to heavy paper that gives a very soft yet vibrant look to the surface of a painting. In the 19th century gouache landscapes of Naples, its bay and Vesuvius were produced in great numbers and many are still available at reasonable prices. These were the postcard souvenirs for Grand Tour visitors, and to the modern eye they evoke a sense of idyllic charm. There are also prints of the more famous scenes.
7.Gold
Italian artisans have been famed for centuries for their goldwork. Neapolitan artists have inherited these traditions since ancient times and local jewellery shops attest to the beauty of their creations. All gold used is at least 18 carat and prices are comparable with those in other countries, while the quality is higher. Head for Borgo degli Orefici, the Goldsmiths’ District.
8.Nativity Figures
For centuries Naples has been internationally noted for its production of figures for nativity scenes, many produced by the very best sculptors, especially in the 18th century, and reproduced to this day by skilled artisans whose botteghe (workshops) line the streets of the old town. A popular secular figure, done in a variety of media, including terracotta, papier mâché, wood, or a combination of materials, is Pulcinella. There are also delightful puppets, dolls and masks.
Figures depicting a nativity scene
9.Handmade Sandals, Capri
There are a number of cobblers on the island of Capri (for further details see Sandalmakers, Capri) who will make made-to-measure sandals within a matter of hours.
Cobbler crafting sandals, Capri
10.Intarsio, Sorrento
Renowned for centuries for its gorgeous intarsio (marquetry), Sorrento continues the tradition to this day, and some of the pieces are true works of art.
TOP 10 MARKETS
1.La Pignasecca, Naples
Via Pignasecca • 8am–1pm dailyOne of Naples’ oldest markets and as cheap as it gets.
2.San Pasquale, Naples
Via S Pasquale • 8am–2pm Mon, Wed, Fri–SatSpices, fish, clothing and jewellery.
3.Fiera Antiquaria Napoletana, Naples
Villa Comunale • 7am–2pm 3rd Sun of monthAs much junk as antiques, but great fun.
4.Atignano, Naples
Via Luca Giordano, Vomero • 8am–2pm Mon–SatHousehold items.
5.Poggioreale
Via M di Caramanico • 8am–2pm Mon, Fri–SatPiles of everything, especially shoes.
6.Posillipo
Viale Virgilio • 8am–2pm ThuClothing, shoes and bags.
7.Resina, Ercolano
Via Pugliano • 8am–1pm dailyRoman “antiques”.
8.Mercato delle Pulci, Poggioreale
Via de Roberto • 8am–1pm SunAs much trash as treasure, but you’re sure to find something.
9.Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi, Naples
7am–2pm dailyA mind-boggling range of stuff.
10.Market in Amalfi
8am–1pm Wed (except Aug)Clothing and food; a truly local shopping experience.
Fresh produce at Amalfi market
