Paris Porcelain in Europe & America

The unique and rough-and-tumble history of Paris porcelain, known to collectors as "Old Paris" or "Vieux Paris", will be the subject of an illustrated talk, presented by the Connecticut Ceramics Study Circle. The lecture by Donna Corbin, Associate Curator of European Decorative Arts, Philadelphia Museum of Art, will take place at the Bruce Museum, Greenwich, CT at 1 p.m.

High-stakes espionage and bribery drove the race among European royalty to find the secret of making fine white translucent porcelain.  Yet Paris workshops managed to survive and thrive through wars, royal restraint of trade and fierce competition within and outside its country's borders. Its exquisite decorative porcelain was sent all over the world, in high demand from the mid-1700's through the 19th century.

Even the young and still raw United States was not immune to Paris finery.  In 1778 George and Martha Washington served important banquets on pristine white French porcelain. And still later in the antebellum South, lavish objects were much coveted.

Expect to be amazed and delighted by bright colors and rich gilding as the history of Paris porcelain in Europe and America is described.

The Connecticut Ceramics Study Circle is a non-profit organization that seeks to promote the understanding of and appreciation for pottery and porcelain around the world. From October through May, monthly lectures by experts are offered to the public and members alike. Refreshments are always served following the presentations.