Polish Pottery
The naissance of Polish pottery dates back to the 7th century. The soil found in the then German Province of Silesia yielded the ideal white clay, the raw material commonly used by potters. The German town of Bunzlau (now Boleslawiec) in southwest Poland is considered by historians as the birthplace. In the 1500s “Bunzlauer” stoneware was being individually crafted there. By the close of the 19th century more elaborated pieces began to appear as display items and tableware and over 900 workshops were in operation. It was also around this time that the government founded the “Keramische Fachshule” (Ceramic Technical Training School) to support and expand the craft. Today the pottery you purchase in Poland or in the States is coated with a lead-free glaze. It is non-toxic and therefore potters are able to create highly functional, durable works of art that are ovenproof, microwavable, and dishwasher safe.
During the Renaissance, in addition to the making of utilitarian vessels, potters also fashioned toys which were a popular attraction at fairs or markets where they attracted the attention of children. They were made in nearly every workshop by a potter or his apprentice or someone in the family. The two most popular pieces were miniature vessels of all sorts as well as hand-molded whistles.
The whistles were shaped as birds, horses, and other animals. Human figures were also produced, often in the shape of mounted soldiers or riders. Toys were sometimes pressed from molds then hand painted.
To get a firsthand look at Polish pottery, this author visited Polish Pottery, a store located in Westlake on Detroit Road. Upon entering, one is immediately struck by the wide variety of pieces from mugs to pitchers to large serving plates. One’s eyes are overwhelmed by the profusion of vibrant colors. The seemingly unending display of patterns is dazzling. There is nothing to compare with holding a piece in your hand and running your fingers over it as you admire the artistry required to produce it. You can choose many pieces that use the same pattern or just mix and match. Prices are dependent upon designs and levels of artistry. Both modern and traditional patterns are on display. This writer could not resist. She purchased her first piece of Polish pottery – a small serving dish decorated in shades of blue. It was, indeed, a unique and worthwhile educational experience.
A perusal of the internet yielded a listing of some 10 pottery-making facilities in Poland. However, it is highly likely that there are more which are not online. One historian estimated that in 1970 there were fewer than 200. Fifty years later this number has likely shrunken considerably. Today most are small family-owned and run businesses. Polish Pottery store purchases the majority of its inventory from Ceramika Artystyczna. ”Established in 1950, Ceramika Artystyczna is renowned for producing stoneware that is of the highest quality and most exquisite decoration. This manufacturer is a co-op of artists, about 70% of whom are women. Ceramika Artystyczna produces tableware, bakeware, kitchen items, and household accessories such as soap dispensers and vases. Both the classical and the unikat designs are highly artistic, with vibrant colors, subtle shading, and intricate details.” (Source: “The History of Polish Pottery” – www.artisanimports.com) If you go to the business’ website at www.polishpotterywestlake.com you will find representative photos from its large collection. On the site is posted an informative article entitled “Polish Pottery 101” by Mackenzie Paul.
Although our museum collection includes only a few examples of Polish pottery, on your next visit see if you can locate them. Proud to be Polish includes pride in the work of our world-renowned Polish potters.