Palissy Ware (European) ceramics

French Palissy ware originated in the 16th century in France, and is named after Bernard Palissy, a French potter and artist who is credited with inventing the technique used to create the highly detailed and realistic designs that are characteristic of this type of pottery.

Palissy was born in 1510 in Saintes, France, and began his career as a potter, making simple earthenware vessels. However, he became increasingly interested in the natural world, and began studying and collecting plants, insects, and other animals. He also became interested in the art of ceramics, and began experimenting with new techniques to create more elaborate and detailed designs.

Palissy's breakthrough came in the mid-16th century, when he developed a technique for creating highly realistic and detailed ceramic pieces that resembled the natural forms of plants, animals, and sea creatures. He would press real specimens of these objects, such as leaves, shells, more... and lizards, into a bed of clay, creating an impression that he would then fill with colored glazes. The pieces were fired in a kiln to create a hard, durable finish.

Palissy's work quickly became popular among the French aristocracy, and he was commissioned to create elaborate decorative pieces for wealthy patrons. His work was also exhibited at international exhibitions, where it received widespread acclaim.

After Palissy's death in 1590, his technique for creating these ornate ceramics was passed down through the generations of potters, and Palissy ware continued to be produced in France into the 19th century. less...