The little animals are quite appealing, and I love the intricate patterns on them. Most are available in a selection of colors. Each year a special figurine painted in gold is offered to Herend Guild members.
Two years ago I accompanied Robert on a trip to Budapest, Hungary. The town of Herend is located about two hours from Budapest, and I couldn't pass up an opportunity to visit the home of this exquisite porcelain. I hired a driver to take me there, and the Herend Guild arranged a tour for me.
Most of the artisans at the porcelain manufactory grew up in the town of Herend. The company sponsors a local vocational school where students train to be porcelain painters and manufacturers and plaster cast makers.
The guide told me that the fishnet pattern that I associate with Herend is mainly popular with Americans. She said that Europeans prefer the natural bisque painting.
Forming a plate on a potter's wheel
Casting a figurine
Assembling a figurine. This one is the Bremen Town Musicians
This girl is carefully cutting out the lattice work of a cachepot
Painting a plate
Notice his tiny palette of colors
Finished products
After observing the intricate and labor-intensive craft that each piece involves, I have a new appreciation for my collection.
This museum showcased the history of Herend porcelain. Many of the patterns were originally created for wealthy families or royalty and were not available for general purchase until many years later
8 comments:
Wow, that is amazing that you got to visit the town and see the pieces being made! What a wonderful experience that must have been!
Carrie
Each piece is like a tiny treasure! Those animals are darling and the intricate pots with all the cutouts? AMAZING!
What an interesting posting! I love the town and all the pretty plates they made!
-Sandy Toes
Ah! I collect Herend too! I started when I was in first grade and have gotten been getting pieces ever since. I collect the pink, green and blue figurines. When you are next in NYC you must stop in Scully & Scully, they have one of the best collections.
PS- SO jealous you got to go to the factory!
Oh wow! That's so fascinating! You take great pictures too, btw.
How fun to go and see where and how it is made!
I loved this post. So interesting to see the factory and part of your collection.
Those cutout cachepots are my favorites. I do not think I have ever seen them here.
We visited the Waterford factory last year and were amazed at what was involved in etching the glass. One has to work there and be trained for TEN years before being considered a master engraver. The attrition rate is 95%!
DARN!! I should have asked to go with you!! How interesting that must have been!
:)
Post a Comment