Horezu ceramic plate · Incised floral · Ivory medium

Romanian ceramic plate, wheel-thrown from local hill clay in Horezu - a UNESCO recognised centre of traditional pottery. Hand-incised flower motifs and a sculptural crenellated edge distinguish this piece from the painted tradition of Horezu ceramics - a revival of models originally created by master artisans who brought Horezu pottery to international recognition. The matte ivory glaze adds a refined aspect to the warm terracotta form. Suitable for serving or display.

The Craft. Made on a potter's wheel from clay taken from the nearby hills and glazed using dyes made from local minerals and clays, these plates require high skill to intricately carve small flower motifs and model a crenellated edge. It is a unique design, standing apart from the classic Horezu ceramics that usually feature painted motifs. 

The Heritage. Horezu pottery is recognised as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The development of the Horezu village is intimately linked to the building of the Horezu Monastery in the 18th century, a masterpiece of the style known as brâncovenesc. According to legend, the builders hired for its construction were forced, for fear of the Ottomans, to work only at night, when the owls (huhurezii) were singing. The school of arts established at the monastery may have contributed to the development of artistic pottery in the village.

The Maker. Cătălin Vicşoreanu decided to leave France, his adoptive home, and return to the house of his famous grandparents, Victor and Eufrosina Vicşoreanu, skilled potters who made the Horezu pottery known to the world. Cătălin is bringing back to life selected models created by the ingenious Victor, a true artist of unique forms and combinations of motifs.