Faïencerie Georges
8 February 2024
In 2010, Carole Georges and Jean-François Dumont took up a rather crazy challenge: to restore the centuries-old art of Nevers earthenware to its former glory by infusing it with a healthy dose of modernity, while preserving its traditional know-how.
Developed in Nevers at the end of the 16th century by the Conrade brothers, originally from Mantua, at the instigation of Louis de Gonzague, Duke of Nevers, the art of earthenware grew so fast in Nevers that it became France’s leading earthenware center in the 17th century. During this golden age, over 500 people were employed in Nevers.
After calibration or molding, clay pieces are fired for the first time at a temperature of around 1,000°C. To become earthenware, pieces are immersed in a glaze bath to render them waterproof. Decoration is applied to the raw glaze. This is followed by a second firing to fix colors. Traditional Nevers earthenware is distinguished by decorations in “grand feu” colors (fired at around 960°C): yellow, green, violet and the famous Nevers blue.
Succession assured
Founded in 1898 by the Marest brothers, Faïencerie Georges was taken over in 1908 by Félicien Cottard, then in 1926 by Émile Georges, Carole’s great-grandfather. For almost 100 years, Georges’ family has been transmitting, generation after generation, an art which has made the richness and notoriety of Nevers for almost 4 centuries.
Carole Georges, with her brush, and Jean-François Dumont, in firing, have brought Nevers earthenware – of which there are now only two production workshops left – up to date, adding a touch of spontaneity, love, poetry and even a touch of offbeat humor and modernity. A daily investment, but above all a success for these two craftsmen-entrepreneurs who, when they were younger, would never have thought of (re)setting up shop in Nevers.
Blue, but not only…
A successful recipe, since the brand with two green bows is now exported all over the world and is a hit with top chefs, including Alain Ducasse, to mention just one, who have recognized this workshop’s ability to produce modern, original earthenware pieces, created and handcrafted to the greatest delight of tableware enthusiasts!
The Faïencerie Georges stores, both in Nevers and in Paris, are brimming with dishes of all sizes and colors. You’ll find objects for everyday use, as well as original wall compositions and attractive gift ideas, combining design and craftsmanship, such as personalized plates shaped like a birth alphabet and hand-painted with the child’s first name.
Quality and creativity haven’t escaped the Charlois group’s attention. The result is a promising collaboration project featuring two family businesses rooted in the Nivernais region for generations!
Guillaume Tozer
Atelier & Boutique
7 quai de Mantoue
58000 Nevers, France
Photograph © Faïencerie Georges
