Background

Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres: A Living Legacy of French Porcelain

Discover centuries of French porcelain artistry at the Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres, a living museum of ceramic excellence and innovation.

4.5

The Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres, located in Sèvres, France, is one of Europe's most renowned porcelain factories, tracing its origins back to 1740. Continuously operating under royal, imperial, and national patronage, it produces exquisite ceramic artworks using traditional techniques, blending historical reproductions with contemporary creations. Visitors can explore its museum and workshops, witnessing the evolution of porcelain artistry and design.

A brief summary to Manufacture nationale de Sèvres

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Check the official website for temporary exhibitions and workshops to enhance your visit.
  • Join a guided tour for deeper insights into the history and techniques of porcelain making.
  • Visit on a weekday to avoid larger crowds.
  • Don't miss the museum shop for unique Sèvres porcelain souvenirs.
  • Combine your visit with a relaxing walk in the nearby Parc de Saint-Cloud.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Paris, take Metro Line 9 to Pont de Sèvres station. Exit the station and walk a short distance to Place de la Manufacture Nationale. Alternatively, take Tram T2 to Musée de Sèvres station, which is directly adjacent to the Manufacture. A single Metro/Tram ticket costs approximately €2.10.

  • Bus

    Several bus lines stop near the Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres, including lines 169, 171, 179, and 426. Get off at the Musée de Sèvres stop, which is a short walk from the entrance. A single bus ticket costs approximately €2.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Paris and the surrounding areas. A taxi ride from central Paris to the Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres typically costs between €17 and €25, depending on traffic and the exact starting point.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available at the Sèvres Manufacture parking lot located at 2 Place de la Manufacture Nationale. Additional parking is available near the tramway station and the entrance to the Parc de Saint-Cloud. Hourly parking rates range from €2 to €4.

Unlock the Best of Manufacture nationale de Sèvres

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Manufacture nationale de Sèvres

The Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres stands as a testament to French artistic heritage, producing fine porcelain since 1740. Originally founded in Vincennes to rival German porcelain, it moved to Sèvres in 1756 under the patronage of Madame de Pompadour. The factory has been continuously supported by the French government, evolving through royal, imperial, and national eras. Sèvres porcelain is celebrated for its exceptional quality and historical significance, gracing the tables of royalty like Louis XV and Marie Antoinette. The factory's early success stemmed from producing soft-paste porcelain, later transitioning to hard-paste porcelain after the discovery of kaolin deposits in France in 1768. This breakthrough allowed Sèvres to monopolize painted porcelains until the 1780s. Today, the Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres continues to create ceramic masterpieces, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. As part of the Cité de la céramique, it unites the Musée national de Céramique-Sèvres and the Musée national Adrien Dubouché, preserving and promoting ceramic arts. Visitors can explore the museum's vast collection of over 55,000 items, showcasing ceramics from around the world and across history. The factory itself is open to the public on select occasions, offering a glimpse into the intricate production processes. The Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres remains dedicated to preserving its unique heritage and expertise, inviting artists, designers, and architects to contribute to its legacy. From historical reproductions to cutting-edge creations, Sèvres continues to shape the world of ceramic art.

Popular Experiences near Manufacture nationale de Sèvres

Popular Hotels near Manufacture nationale de Sèvres

Select Currency