All about Czech porcelain

Czech porcelain is deservedly known all over the world, and is especially loved by the inhabitants of Russia. However, in order not to get a fake at the time of purchase, it is important to understand the features of such dishes and know who produces it.

The history of Czech porcelain begins at the end of the 18th century, or rather, in the 90s of the century. The first sample of Czechoslovak porcelain was presented near Karlovy Vary, where a deposit of kaolin or white clay was discovered shortly before. Since the main raw materials needed for the production of porcelain turned out to be of high quality, the district quickly became the main center for the production of this type of tableware in the Czech Republic. Moreover, Czech clay itself began to be transported to other countries engaged in the production of porcelain.

Since at that time this territory was under German control, it is not surprising that the manufacturing technology was chosen German. Besides, most of the factories responsible for the production of Czech porcelain were owned by German industrialists. Nevertheless, the cost of Czech dishes was still lower, being at the same level in quality as English or German porcelain. In fact, the secret of the popularity of Czech porcelain turned out to be in a combination of the advantages of both countries. From the Czech side, it was a high-quality and reliable source material, and from the German side, it was a time-tested recipe for making dishes, the experience of craftsmen and mastery of the technique of elegant painting.

Dishes from the Czech Republic have a number of significant advantages, which explains its popularity around the world.Products have high strength, and during operation it is not necessary to worry about chips - they are unlikely to appear. High-quality glaze is not afraid of microwave radiation, it allows you to wash products in the dishwasher, and also use them at high temperatures. The impact of cutlery does not lead to stains on the surface of the plates, which is also a plus. Although the price of Czech porcelain cannot be called small, it is much lower than in the case of German or English copies.

A minus can be called a design that not every buyer likes. Some rudeness and monotonous plots often become the shortcomings of this variety of dishes. The price of Czech porcelain, rather, refers to the middle segment. For example, a scoop for a Leander brand cake can be purchased for a thousand rubles, and a table set for six people of the same company will cost about 23 thousand rubles.

Czech porcelain is most often purchased in the form of tea sets or table sets combining the maximum number of objects, and not just plates and mugs with cups. For example, a tea set for 6 people can consist of 15 items, including a kettle, sugar bowl, milk jug and a set of saucers with cups. A typical table set for 6 people consists of 24 items. In six copies in this case, various plates are presented: deep, shallow and dessert. In addition, the set includes an oval dish, a round dish, a pair of salad bowls, a salt shaker and a round saucepan on a stand. Of the unusual dishes related to Czech porcelain, mention should be made of a bread box, a bowl for bones, an oiler, a seasoning kit, an oil container, a lemongrass, napkin rings and many others.

Czech porcelain produced by different factories combines the use of the same common plots. For example, quite often on the plates there is a wildflower, or rather, variations of a plant element resembling an onion. Flowers are most often painted in a traditional blue hue. Equally popular are services with biblical scenes and sketches inspired by the Renaissance style. All of them are united under the single name "Madonna."

Pink porcelain is decorated with gilding and floral arrangements. However, more often tourists from all over the world bring home mugs and plates with Czech geese decorated with blue bows and arranged in pairs.

The essence of Czech porcelain manufacturing technology is that the mixture itself has a pleasant pinkish color. If you look at the fragments of the product, you can find a pink tint even from the inside. This, by the way, makes it possible to distinguish Czech porcelain from the common English, German and French, which will be white at breaks. European manufacturers add coloring to products by means of further application of colored glaze. However, most often Czech porcelain looks milky white.

Manufacturers of Bohemian porcelain are well known all over the world, as they have been functioning for many years and are the guarantor of product quality. Klasterec-Thun Plantoperating since 2009, is considered the largest in the Czech Republic. Production includes porcelain for home, restaurants and other catering establishments. The company used to operate under the Thun brand, which began operations in 1794. One of the most popular works of that time was porcelain "Tuna" servicecreated for the Vienna Imperial Court.

Other famous Thun creations include services “Nicole”, “Clea”, “Constance” and “Opal”. Currently, the manufacturer is increasingly modifying the classic design in favor of modern trends, for example, adding avant-garde notes. Special children's services are also popular.

Porcelain brand Leander It was first made in 1907 in Karlovy Vary. At the end of World War II, the company was taken under the patronage of the state, and the dishes of the factory began to be exhibited at international fairs. Currently, the company produces several lines of utensils: general purpose, for hotels and restaurants, as well as luxury items decorated with hand-painted. The most popular services of this brand include “Windsor”, “Sonata”, “Sabina” and “Victoria”. One of the most famous designs of Czech porcelain - geese, is made here.

Concordia Lesov Plant was founded in 1888. His main specialization was porcelain bernadotte. A characteristic feature of the technology used are small bas-reliefs, very clear and neat. Products are made in white or ivory. Bernadotte is presented in various variations: from fruit slides to napkin holders and cake spatulas. Buyers can find caskets, ashtrays, and various details for home decoration.

Factory brand Haas Czjzek It was founded in 1792, and therefore is considered one of the oldest. The company's products are a set of dishes for table setting, decorated with stucco decorations. The most famous brand is considered service "Simon". In addition to hand painting, objects are decorated using acid engraving and other technologies. The dishes are of high quality and durability, the ability to wash them in the dishwasher and easily place in the microwave. Finally, one cannot but mention the dishes Brand Bohemia Porcelain - one of the oldest Czech companies.

When choosing porcelain made in Czechoslovakia, it is important to carefully consider and feel the selected products. It is pleasant to touch real porcelain, as it is absolutely smooth, without any dents or grooves. If you examine, for example, a cup using a bright light source, you will find that it is slightly translucent. On the back of the dishes you can always find a kind of brand - a circle left after firing. Sometimes next to it is placed a few points left from the needles on which the dishes were hung.

In a standing state, the dishes do not swing, but manifests itself steadily. In the case when the porcelain product is a product of a particular plant, the emblem of the latter is applied under the glaze, and on each product, without exception. Other drawings are drawn very carefully and evenly, without any chips. In general, it is worth remembering that real Czech porcelain is not too cheap, but its counterfeits with a lower price are available in large quantities.

Czech porcelain is not recommended to be washed using conventional dishwashing detergents, as in most cases coarse abrasive particles adversely affect the surface condition - it becomes cracked and loses its original color. It is much more correct to use baby soap and a little warm water in a separate container. The condition of the dishes will be negatively affected by both pressurized water coming from the flowing tap and soaking of individual specimens.

After washing, cups and plates should be immediately wiped with a soft rag or rag to prevent scorching.

You can find out how Czech porcelain is produced by watching the video below.