From a small workshop created by local craftsmen to a world-famous brand loved by royal families throughout Europe – the history of Ćmielów porcelain is material for a fascinating novel. The history of one of the oldest ceramic factories dates back to 1790, when local craftsmen decided to create a joint workshop. None of them imagined that their small manufacture would go down in Polish history, gaining fame in the country and then throughout Europe. Initially, Ćmielów craftsmen specialised in clay and faience products. Most of the designs were different from those we know today – warm colours and simple forms dominated. It was not until four decades later that porcelain production began in Ćmielów. Tableware, vases and other decorations quickly won the recognition of the elites and aristocrats of the time, including Prince Józef Poniatowski himself, and later aristocrats from abroad. The demand for miniature works of art was so great that Ćmielów porcelain was transported to Warsaw, then along the Vistula to Gdańsk, and then all over the world. Today, Ćmielów porcelain is still present on the tables of royal families, heads of state, as well as art collectors and lovers of the highest class of design. How Polish porcelain became synonymous with luxury
Its first owner and initiator was Hyacynt (Jacek) Count Małachowski (1804-1830). He employed specialists from outside Poland in managerial positions, but the basic crew was recruited from the local population. After Jacek Małachowski's death (1821), his daughter became the heir to the factory. The plants were still managed by an experienced specialist, Adolf Fryderyk Watke, who achieved considerable success in this field. At that time, the Ćmielów manufactory already had a regulated position on the ceramic market, not only domestically, but also in Europe. porcelana.com.pl/cmielow/historia
Translated by Google •
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