Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The Musée de la faience, located in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, is part of a historical context where the village met all the conditions to become a major faiancier centre. Water, clay and wood, which were abundant local resources, enabled mills, ovens and workshops to operate. These natural assets have encouraged the development of a flourishing faiencier production, especially in the 18th century, the most brilliant period of this craft activity.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie's faiancière production declined after the 1870 war, due to increasing industrial competition. In 1927, no more workshops were in operation. To preserve this heritage, Marcel Provence, supported by the Académie de Moustiers, has revived the art of faience by relighting the ovens with experienced ceramicists and master-featherers. The museum was inaugurated on September 15, 1929, marking the revival of this tradition.

The museum houses a varied collection covering the entire production period, from the 18th to the 20th century. The iconic pieces include hunting dishes, Bérain decors, mythologies and grotesques, as well as historic pottery and terracotta objects. A video film presents manufacturing techniques, offering visitors an immersion in this exceptional craft.

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