The Earthenware
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, city of earthenware
The art of earthenware is an age-old skill that involves making and decorating terracotta objects covered in a white glaze before being hand-painted and fired at high temperatures. In Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, earthenware is not just a craft, it’s a veritable cultural heritage. Renowned throughout France and far beyond, it symbolises the elegance, precision and identity of the village. Since the 17th century, the earthenware makers of Moustiers have been crafting pieces of great finesse, hand-decorated using techniques handed down from generation to generation.
© OT Moustiers
© OT Moustiers
© OT Moustiers
© OT Moustiers
Earthenware and ceramics makers in Moustiers
Moustiers still lives to the rhythm of its workshops. Today, several earthenware makers continue the tradition while offering original, contemporary creations. Each of them works the clay, glazing it, decorating it and firing it using rigorous craftsmanship. You can meet them in their workshops, watch the different stages of production and talk to these passionate craftsmen who keep the soul of the village alive.
Franck Scherer
L’atelier Soleil was set up in 1995 by Franck Scherer and his partner, Geraldine.
Franck Scherer
Philippe Lopez
A SUCCESSFUL CHANGE OF PROFESSION. Line and Philippe took over the family business that was…
Philippe Lopez
Johann Fine et Béatrice Devos
As is common in the faïence trade, businesses are often family-run which is precisely the…
Johann Fine et Béatrice Devos
Patricia Mufraggi
THE TRADTION THAT WILL LAST FOREVER. The Mufraggi workshop was set up in 1970 by…
Patricia Mufraggi
Eric et Laetitia Figuière
CLAY, A DIFFERENT WAY… L’Atelier des Cigales knows how to add colour and cheerfulness to…
Eric et Laetitia Figuière
Anne-Marie Blanchard
A FAMILY STORY. Anne-marie, daughter of a faïence craftsman, set up L’atelier du Barri with…
Anne-Marie Blanchard
Isabelle Bondil
FAIENCE, THE TRADiTIONAL WAY. L’Atelier Bondil’: outstanding craftsmanship offering excellence and authenticity.
Isabelle Bondil
Michèle Blanc
THREE WOMEN, ONE BEAUTIFUL STORY. The baton has been passed down from mother to daughter…
Michèle BlancThe Earthenware Museum
To better understand the richness of this art form, visit the Musée de la Faïence. Housed in a former hospice in the heart of the village, this museum displays over 300 original pieces from public and private collections. Discover the evolution of styles, the great names of Mousterian earthenware and the secrets of emblematic designs such as grotesques, mythological scenes and Bérain-style decorations.
© OT MoustiersEarthenware to admire… and take away
Want to take home a unique souvenir of Moustiers? There are a number of specialist shops in the village centre. You’ll find traditional or modern, utilitarian or decorative items, all made locally. From small plates from the large ornamental dish, each creation tells a story and perpetuates the authenticity of Moustiers. In Moustiers, earthenware is much more than a souvenir: it’s an experience, a journey through time and the expression of living expertise.
© OT Moustiers