Italian State Acquires Richard Ginori Museum for €700,000

The Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Tourism has finalized the purchase of the Museo Richard Ginori in Sesto Fiorentino for €700,000, as announced by Minister Dario Franceschini. The museum houses the historical collection of the oldest Italian porcelain manufacturer, founded in 1735 by Marquis Carlo Ginori. The acquisition, first revealed during the G7 Culture summit in spring, includes the building, which requires extensive renovation due to years of neglect. Within 120 days, the ministry is expected to also acquire the collections and museum displays, integrating the museum into the national museum system. While the collection is saved, concerns remain for the factory workers. The manufacturer, acquired by luxury group Kering in 2013, faces a stalemate over land ownership and economic challenges. Exports from the Sesto Fiorentino ceramics district fell 2.7% in the first half of 2017, according to a report by Intesa Sanpaolo and Banca CR di Firenze.