The history of Bolesławiec ceramics dates back to the Middel Ages, when first informations about local pottery were noted.Today, we invite you on interesting journey into the past, during which we will show you how ceramics manufacture evolved over time :)
The development of ceramics in Bolesławiec is strictly related to availabity of natural clay in this area.
From 17th to 18th century there were produced mainly brown and round vessels, decorated with ribbing. The most popular types were: jugs, pitchers and inkpots.
Photo Museum of Ceramics in Bolesławiec
In the second half of 18th century appeared new, characteristic method of decoration - white appliqué in the shape of crests, animals or figures.
Photo Museum of Ceramics in Bolesławiec
In 1753 Johann Gottlieb Joppe, well - known Bolesławiec craftsman, made the Great Pot, considered as a symbol of ceramics manufacturing in this area.
Photo Museum of Ceramics in Bolesławiec
Numerous innovative solutions appeared in 19th century, when the feldspar glaze started to be used by Johann Gottlieb Altmann. He was also the first one, who used white clay as a main material, not only for making appliqués.
White clay was widely used from second half of 19th century. The white surface was perfect for painting - then stamp method was used for the first time. The most popular pattern were dots, made in cobalt blue. At the end of 19th century, when Art Nouveau motives were common, appeared another famous Bolesławiec pattern - peacock eye.
Photo Museum of Ceramics in Bolesławiec
In 1897 in Bolesławiec the Trade School of Ceramics was established. Teachers and students invented many new methods, for example poured glazing, spraying or cornet painting.
The end of 19th century was the time of the successful development for Bolesławiec. There were few, big workshops in town: H. Reinhold, R. Burdack, J. Paul, C. Werner.
After The Second World War the period of polish production in Bolesławiec started. Difficult beginnings were related to Tadeusz Szafran, who was delegated to Lower Silesia in order to reopen pottery workshops. Izabela Zdrzałka was appointed first Artistic Director. In 1964 Bronisław Wolanin took over the management.
Photo Museum of Ceramics in Bolesławiec
In 1980 “Zakłady Ceramiczne” was formed, run by Broniław Wolanin. Present artistic director is Janina Bany Kozłowska, talented potter, awarded with medal “Gloria Artis”.
Modern Bolesławiec ceramics seem very different from historical vessels, but same features are the same. Bolesławiec pottery has always been made and decorated using traditional methods and modern techniques, reflecting tastes and styles of its era :)
