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Musée de la Faïence: A Showcase of Moustiers Pottery

Discover centuries of artistry at the Musée de la Faïence in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, showcasing the evolution of world-renowned local earthenware.

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The Musée de la Faïence in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie displays the history and artistry of local earthenware. The museum features a collection of pieces from the 17th century to the present day, illustrating the evolution of techniques and styles that have shaped Moustiers' faience.

A brief summary to Musée de la Faïence

  • Monday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday for a more peaceful experience and better interaction with the museum staff.
  • Check the museum's schedule for pottery workshops or demonstrations to enhance your understanding of faience production.
  • Don't miss the museum shop for unique faience souvenirs and locally made artisan products.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Musée de la Faïence is located in the center of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie on Rue du Seigneur de la Clue. From the Moustiers-Sainte-Marie town hall, walk northeast on Place de l'Eglise, then turn right onto Rue du Seigneur de la Clue. The museum will be on your left. Walking within the village is the easiest way to reach the museum, allowing you to explore the charming streets.

  • Public Transport

    The closest bus stop to Musée de la Faïence is Mas De Segries, which is a 1-minute walk to the museum. From the bus stop, head north towards the village center. Bus line 450 stops at this station. Bus tickets can be purchased from the driver; a single fare within the region typically costs around €2.

  • Parking

    If driving, several parking areas are available around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Parking Magnans Haut has charging stations. Parking is paid from April 1st to October 31st. Use the Flowbird app to pay for parking. Parking rates typically range from €2 for two hours. From the parking area, walk towards the village center and follow signs to the Musée de la Faïence.

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Discover more about Musée de la Faïence

The Musée de la Faïence, located in the heart of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of faience pottery in the region. The museum is housed in the former mansion of the Seigneur de la Clue, offering visitors a glimpse into the evolution of this unique art form from its origins to the present day. The museum's collection includes over 300 rare pieces, with the oldest dating back to 1687. Visitors can explore the different stages of faience production, from shaping to decoration and firing, through a series of exhibits and informative displays. The displays include glazed tiles and pipes. The "Grand Salon Bleu" showcases blue and white faience from the early Clérissy and Olérys factories. Other rooms display different eras and styles, including the green room's garland decor, the grotesque decor room, and the pink room's 18th and 19th-century pieces. The village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie has been known for its pottery since the Middle Ages, but it was Pierre Clérissy who transformed the traditional craft into faience in the 17th century. Inspired by Italian techniques, Clérissy developed a method for creating white enamel pottery that quickly gained popularity throughout Europe. The industry declined in the late 19th century due to competition from English porcelain but was revived in 1928 by Marcel Provence, who founded the Académie de Moustiers and the Musée de la Faïence. Today, several workshops in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie continue to produce faience, keeping this traditional art form alive.

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