Alcobaça - Craquelê
17 August, 2024
It is thought that working with materials such as clay, kaolin or white stone has been practiced in Alcobaça since the Neolithic period. The polychrome clay sculptures, created by monks, appeared during the construction of the Alcobaça Monastery and in the 18th century the first pieces appeared with the word "Alcobaça" inscribed in the center. Later, in 1875, a ceramics factory was founded by José dos Reis, an artisan from Coimbra.
Today, Alcobaça pottery displays drawings of flowers, sayings and also landscapes but mostly flowers. The word “Alcobaça” is not always present and the drawings can be quite colorful and in shades of blue and green.
In our store, in addition to the traditional ceramics from Alcobaça, you can find a more "premium" version of this magnificent painting as the flowers are drawn in more detail and the piece is deliberately aged for aesthetic purposes, called "Craquelê".
Craquelê are the small cracks that form in the enamel. Cracks may be premature or due to the natural aging of the piece. Premature cracks (also called fissures) are produced by the drying of the pictorial layer. During drying, due to chemical processes such as oxidation, physical effects are produced in the pictorial layer, and only in it, which can reach the preparation layer, but without passing through it. The oldest cracks are produced by the aging of the painting layer by mechanical agents, generating cracks in the painting layer, which cover the pictorial layer and the preparation layer, even reaching the support of the work. Craquelé can also be created intentionally to obtain a certain texture or irregular pattern on a surface, such as ours. A different type of glass is used and after leaving the oven, after a few minutes of cooling the piece, the crackle effect is created.
Basically we managed to have the appearance of a century-old piece but new and much more detailed than conventional ones.
History and OriginThe ceramic tradition of Alcobaça dates back to the foundation of the Monastery of Alcobaça in the 12th century. The monastery and its surrounding lands played a fundamental role in the region’s development, including ceramic production. The Cistercian monks introduced new techniques and styles, directly influencing the design and quality of the pieces produced.
In the 18th century, Alcobaça became one of Portugal's main ceramic centers. The region's ceramics were known for their durability and the quality of the glaze, which ensured the long-lasting nature of the pieces. It was also during this period that large-scale production of decorative items began, including plates, jars, tiles, and other utilitarian pieces.
Floral DesignFloral designs in Alcobaça ceramics are a striking feature. These floral decorations can be seen on plates, platters, jars, jugs, and tiles. The floral motifs vary and can range from stylized flowers to more realistic representations. The flowers are hand-painted, giving each piece a unique and artisanal touch.
The more traditional designs use a vibrant color palette, including cobalt blue, green, yellow, and red. These colors are applied over a white or ivory background, creating a visual contrast that is both elegant and rustic.
Techniques and ProductionThe production of Alcobaça ceramics involves several stages. First, the clay is shaped by hand or using molds. Once dry, it is fired in the kiln for the first time, a process known as bisque firing. Then, the pieces are glazed and decorated with floral motifs, typically hand-painted by skilled artisans. The final stage involves a second firing, which sets the colors and the glaze, resulting in a shiny and durable final piece.
Distinctive FeaturesIn addition to the floral motifs, Alcobaça ceramics are recognized for several specific characteristics:
Glossy Glaze: The glaze used on Alcobaça pieces is known for its intense shine, contributing to the vibrancy of the colors.Diverse Forms: The pieces can range from small plates and mugs to large platters and jars.Natural Inspiration: The floral motifs are often combined with other natural elements such as birds, trees, and foliage, reflecting the influence of nature on local art.Cultural ImportanceAlcobaça ceramics are an important part of Portuguese cultural heritage. In addition to being appreciated within the country, Alcobaça pieces are also exported to various parts of the world, where they are valued as objects of art and decoration.
Many families in Alcobaça continue the ceramic tradition, passing on techniques and designs from generation to generation, ensuring that this traditional art remains alive and relevant today.
