Barcelos Ceramics
Pottery and ceramics are a very important part of Casa Atlântica. For many years, we have worked hand in hand with artisans from northern Portugal and Galicia.
For many years, we have worked closely with artisans from northern Portugal and Galicia. Most of them are small, long-established family businesses. To find them, we ask a lot of questions, drive many kilometers, do research… each region has its specialty: potters, ceramists, blacksmiths, carpenters, basket makers…
Currently, we are working with 7 workshops, but over the years we have collaborated with more than 20.
In the 1970s and 1980s, this kind of work was undervalued, and many people emigrated to France to work in factories where wages were better. As a result, many artisan workshops closed.
In the 1970s and 1980s, this kind of work was undervalued, and many people emigrated to France to work in factories where wages were better. As a result, many artisan workshops closed.
In northern Portugal, especially in the Barcelos area, there has always been a strong pottery tradition, as the land is rich in clay and water. This abundance of raw materials gave rise to many workshops. Today, they are still small, family-run, and highly artisanal. But with the resurgence and reappreciation of craftsmanship, they have regained strength.
The pieces were always meant to be utilitarian, although in the second half of the 20th century, they began making more figurative items with the tourism boom.
The pieces were always meant to be utilitarian, although in the second half of the 20th century, they began making more figurative items with the tourism boom.