Nestled in the foothills of the Sudety Mountains in western Poland is the town of Boleslawiec. This town is the center of the production of the old Silesian style pottery called Bunzlau in German, or Boleslawiec in Polish. These ceramics are characterized by their durability and beauty. The cobalt and white colors, with hints of blue or brown, bring to mind the feathers of a peacock, which is what the patterns are trying to duplicate. The pottery has a strong tradition and many samples are seen in museums and antique shops throughout Europe.

It is with good reason the town is the center of production for these ceramics. The surrounding area is abundant in deposits of a clay which is characterized by a creamy white color and the hardness of brick when fired. The clay is a result of the pressure of the earth’s movements during the formation of the mountains.

During the 17th century, it was discovered that the raw clay was perfect for the production of ceramics, and local pottery workshops began to appear. Over the years, the production of pottery increased, and the development of the blue and white designs began to emerge and became very popular in this area. Very few of the original workshops survive to this day.

The ceramics are made from clay from neighboring mines. They are decorated by a hand stamping technique and clear glazes. They are produced without lead or any other toxic substances. Firing the ceramics twice, first without glazes at 800 degrees Celsius, and later with glazes at 1230 degrees Celsius, allows them to withstand use in the oven, freezer or dishwasher. (Please do not move ceramics from a very cold source to a hot oven). As there are no metallic substances used, they are also microwave safe.

Our ceramics come from the factory of Stanislaw Wiza, which is located on the site of the former Tuppak and Silesia factory, which was destroyed in World War II.

Boleslawiec kitchenware appeals to a wide variety of people and has become a household favorite. It is truly a usable collectible.