In a region of Poland called Silesia, there is a town named Boleslawiec, known for its abundantly available white clay. It is this clay that is used to create the pottery beloved by modern day American collectors, known as Boleslawiec Polish Pottery. Much like the vibrant patterns associated with Polish Pottery, this folk art has quite a colorful history.
The art we know today had humble beginnings in 15th century Europe. By 1511, a guild was established to regulate artisans’ access to the coveted clay. After this, the region experienced several changes in power. As often happens when governments overturn, art is affected, influenced and changed.
In 1742, Boleslawiec became a part of the Kingdom of Prussia. German artisans moving to the area introduced the local pottery to the Prussian rulers who took a particular interest in the art. The durability of the fired-clay became known as Stonewear, praised for its durability. Prussian rulers encouraged conversations between German art professors and local artisans and the stoneware pottery evolved yet again, adding tea and coffee pots to the growing repertoire of Polish pottery pieces.
The 1880s and 90s saw a high demand in the Polish pottery industry. At that time, the city of Boleslawiec boasted over 20 different pottery shops. The pottery began to take the form we know today. Bright cobalt blues, greens and reds were stamped on the clay with sponges to create colorful patterns. These hand-made pieces were created with extreme attention to detail, some patterns were even hand-painted directly on the piece before being fired at high temperatures. In the early 1900s the iconic “Peacock Eye” or Pfauenauge pattern was created and rose to popularity.
When both world wars hit Boleslawiec, the local economy suffered greatly and Polish Pottery became scarce. This drove up the value of the pieces that remained after World War II. Boleslawiec was given back to Poland and German artisans were exiled from the city. However, the 1946 Polish government saw a revitalization in the art community when efforts were taken to bring back the folk art. During communist rule over Poland, the CPLiA Cooperative was created. It set up various programs to teach the craft to new artisans who carried on the tradition of creating Polish Pottery.
Today, Care & Share is featuring three gorgeous pieces of Boleslawiec Polish Pottery on our Auction App. Beautiful, floral patterns in the classic cobalt blues can be seen on the two scalloped edge bowls as well as the blue rose planter. Don’t miss your opportunity with these amazing hand crafted items.