Our friendly neighbour China has to be credited for the traces into the very first Ceramic Ware or Porcelain but majorly the west takes the chunk of the pie when it comes to popularising them around the globe.
The first breakthrough in porcelain production in Europe occurred in Florence between 1575 to 1597. Using a furnace designed by Bountalenti and Fontana, a delicate paste porcelain was created, the production came to be known as “Medici Porcelain”. However porcelain factories started out to spring up around Europe only after the Arcanum and kiln technology became noted in the mid-18th century.
Limoges porcelain – the famous “white gold” from France
Did you know ? Limoges porcelain – the gold standard of porcelain – is one of the best and most sought-after fine chinas that Europe has to offer. Bright white, delicate, transparent, and yet extremely robust . Renowned for its diversity of designs and versatile pairings, Limoges porcelain is some of the most coveted decorative art to emerge from France. (Now you know why we were heading to France this summer but unfortunately the trip got called off)
Circling back today don’t we all love the Blue & White Chinoiserie , The Dutch Delftware, The Wedgwoods , The Villeroys , The Lenox, The Royal Copenhagens, The Spodes and the list goes on. All of these brands date back to centuries or more. These priced possessions being passed on as heirlooms if you were lucky enough to now being looked upon in the European Antique markets and French Brocantes by the likes of Ceramic lovers & collectors.
But back here in India historically either Metal or Terracotta was used to serve or consume food , our versions of ceramics usually came from the Potters wheel that were porous & without glaze known as ‘Terracotta’. The Indian Royalties , Merchants & Traders and other Diplomats who had the privilege to travel overseas often brought back fine china at one point but the world has changed much now.
Other than the fact that Travel has become accessible to many, you don’t really need to Travel West to get your hands on good ceramics or even ask a relative to lug them all the way from Europe on their Home coming unless they are paying, then most definitely ask.
You don’t even have to make a trip to Delhi’s Karolbagh to scout and haggle with sellers to get your hands on imported ceramics and still doubt their genuineness .
A host of Indian brands have done the hard work to bring some incredible stuff to cater to the modern Indian aesthetics , Individual Potters are making noteworthy designs too. And my verdict is its only going to get better from here.
So here’s my guide to finding ceramics in India. Picked a few of my favourites that I have either bought from or are on my lust list as they say. Lets dive straight in shall we !
Minimal Indian
Founded by Adrita in 2019, who believes in the art of simplicity, allured by the old world charm and of minimal living, Minimal Indian was conceptualised to celebrate these two philosophies at core. The products are created for those who believe in the idea of ‘less is more’. These ceramics have a minimal design true to its brand name often in just Ivory and Black. Perfect for neutral lovers like me or anybody who wants to add some understated classics and timeless charm to their collection. Find out more here
Terravida Goa
Derived from the Spanish words terra (earth) and vida (lifetime), the rich Goan heritage informs their unique aesthetic – a contemporary interpretation of rustic Portuguese elements to create meaningful and timeless pieces. I stumbled upon the brand while reading an article a few years ago, the picture featuring some plates with a bright lemon design instantly transported me to Amalfi on the Italian Coast (I am so angry with myself for not getting one when I visited Amalfi in 2016). But on our last visit to Goa I made it a point to visit this store and pick a few pieces from their Rooster collection. If you are in North Goa , be sure to visit their Panjim store or order online Here
Fabindia
Founded by John Bissell in 1960, Fabindia truly celebrates everything India. What can I say I love Fabindia , I am quite certain you have already heard of this brand and visited their stores umpteen times. We love the rustic stoneware they do in earthy colour pallets and their festive collections are a perfect edition for hosting a great Diwali feast. Have often bought from them, gifted to friends and the quality and prices both get me excited each time. Find them here
Nicobar
If modern tropicals , playful indian prints with a hint of eclectic appeals to you then , Nicobar is where you need to go. A sister concern of the well established Luxe brand ‘ Good Earth ‘ – A bespoke luxury brand that exudes Indian charm like none other. The Nicobar team believes the best comes when the East and West come together, quietly confident in India’s roots, humble yet looking outward, combining history and geography. Find out more here
Good Earth
With the discerning eye of a craft connoisseur ,Anita Lal founded Good Earth in the year 1996 to bridge the gap for urban consumers eager for well made contemporary designs with an Indian aesthetic. I first discovered them in Delhi’s iconic Khan market in 2006 when I worked for Anokhi. Good Earth products definitely make great timeless gifts and are right at top when it comes to Indian Luxe. Look them up for some timeless high quality pieces that can be passed onto generations. Best put in the words by Mrs Lal herself “Living with fine handcrafted objects uplifts the spirit and adds a quality of timelessness to a home” Find out more here
Ellementry
This is a brand that does me proud because they hail from my city Jaipur. They do beautiful modern ceramics and their geometric ones with stripes and polka dots in pastel colours are my favourite. Their parent company Dileep Industries established in 1989 has been exporting high quality products for over two decades now and decided to foray into to the domestic market a few years ago. Here’s what their design principle says – Brew the perfect blend of desires and necessities. Shaped with culture, rooted in wisdom and adapted to modern sensibilities. Find out more here
Atelier LalMitti
Nestled in the hills of Himachal Pradesh this clay studio run by Elodie Alexandre and Reyaz Badaruddin is located in the Village of Andretta near Dharamshala. Their handprinted ceramics are minimalist yet striking that draw inspiration from their surroundings in the mountains. Combining simple and elegant forms with whimsical decorations , their work is cheerful and appealing to say the least. Find out more here
Freedom Tree
Founded by Latika Khosla this brand brings to you, versatile pieces that celebrate the modern Indian sensibility with a global appeal. Everything at Freedom Tree is designed in-house and made in India. Handcrafted with local materials, traditional techniques, with a contemporary twist that appeals to the new age millennials. There is something for everyone at Freedom Tree. Find out more here
The Wishing Chair
The brainchild of two female entrepreneurs Vivita & Avneet, I discovered their cute whimsical store in Gurgaon many years ago and have been buying ever since. This homegrown Indian brand creates playfully designed products that celebrate creativity, handcrafted artisanship & life’s little pleasures. If sweet florals, pops of colours, and cheerful patterns are your jam they have fun things to add to your collection. Find out more here
Dhee Pottery
I discovered Arunima through Instagram a few months ago and people you have to go see her work. I am in love with her Floral Hand painted ceramics and definitely want to get by hands on some soon enough. She also conducts pottery classes for those who want to learn. Get in touch with her through her Instagram handle , if you want to add some to yours or want to visit her studio in Bengaluru. Dhee Pottery on Instagram
CuriocitybyLidwin
Lidwin & I also connected through Instagram and what a uber talented & gifted potter she is. I bought a couple of things around Autumn & Christmas because if you ask me she has the best Christmas collection in India. Don’t believe me hop onto her page for a complete cuteness overload. CuriocitybyLidwin on Instagram
So here’s a round up of some Brands that make amazing ceramics in India whether you want to be gifting them on a special occasion or want to just grow your own collection.
Since this post is a readers request I have to add we have few basics also from IKEA, Home Center and Shoppers Stop which are quite good for everyday use. Some heirlooms have been passed down from Mom or thrifted from random stores during our Travels.
Have you come across a Home grown Ceramic brand that you loved much. Please share in the comments I would love to know and include them in this list 2.0. Till then its a Happy Friday Folks !
