Quimper faience (France) ceramics

Quimper pottery is a type of tin-glazed earthenware that has been produced in Quimper, Brittany, France, since the late 17th century. The pottery is known for its distinctive designs, which often feature Breton motifs such as peasants, landscapes, and flowers.

The history of Quimper pottery can be traced back to the 1680s, when Jean-Baptiste Bousquet, a potter from Provence, moved to Quimper and established the HB Factory, a pottery workshop. Bousquet's pottery was initially utilitarian in nature, but it soon began to produce more decorative pieces. In the early 18th century, Quimper pottery began to adopt the blue and white colour scheme that would become its trademark. This colour scheme was inspired by Chinese porcelain, which was highly prized in Europe at the time.

In the mid-18th century, Quimper pottery experienced a period of great success. The pottery's popularity was due in part to its more... use of traditional Breton motifs, which appealed to a growing interest in regional culture. Quimper pottery was also popular among the French aristocracy, who were attracted to its delicate designs and fine craftsmanship.

The success of Quimper pottery continued into the 19th century. The Porquier factory, which was established in the mid-19th century and produced a wide range of faience pieces, including plates, bowls, jugs, and figurines. The Porquier factory's products often featured finely painted designs with delicate brushwork. However, the popularity of the pottery began to decline in in the late 19th century, as new technologies such as mass production began to challenge traditional pottery making methods. In the early 20th century, Quimper pottery was nearly extinct. However, the pottery was revived in the 1920s by a group of artists and craftsmen who were determined to preserve the tradition of Quimper pottery.

Quimper pottery is still produced in Quimper and the pottery is still known for its distinctive blue and white designs, which are often inspired by traditional Breton motifs. less...