Favorite Things
52Polish Pottery
I came across Polish Pottery while staying with friends in Germany. This stuff is great! It's all hand painted and each one of the limited pieces is signed by the artist. You can use it as everyday dining and baking ware which makes it useable art!! It can be baked in up to 400 degree, put in the microwave, dishwasher etc. without a worry. It handwashes beautifully as things do not stick to it because of the glaze.
Polish Pottery has been made in the town of Boleslawiec for hundreds of years. They make it out of a clay that is indigenous to the territory. The designs were simple to start with, mainly involving the peacock design or other designs which were simple to develop merely using potatos as the stamp.
As time went on and especially when the Iron Curtain fell in 1988, the designs became more and more detailed and refined. Now there are thousands of patterns to choose from which explains why it is so common to mix and match patterns. It is actually quite rare for collectors to actually stick with one pattern and also quite difficult. There are several levels of patterns, the first being the classic patterns. These include the ultra traditional peacock variations along with other equally simple and charming designs. Next you have the more intricate patterns which are much more detailed. These are called "Unikat" or "Unique" in English. The most beautiful patterns and the most artistic are called "Signature Unikat." Each piece is so beautifully detailed that it is truly a piece of art. These items are each carefully signed by the artist.
Polish Pottery is still only really made in the town of Boleslawiec. There are a number of factories that produce Polish Pottery each one with unique patterns and forms. You can tell where each piece comes from by the stamp you will find on the bottom.
I absolutely love my collection and use it all the time. I never fail to receive compliments on it and questions as to where it can be found here. If you already have Polish Pottery you know as well as I do that it is quite an addiction!
