View Bernardaud Dinnerware range
Bernardaud is a family business, set up in 1863 by Léonard Bernardaud, the great grandfather of the present member of the family Michel Bernardaud whose book published in 2006 is dedicated to “the first man who had the idea to fire clay”. This family has since the 19th century worked with ‘white gold’, transformed it, given it shape, combining commerce with the love of beautiful objects. Berhardaud is renowned for high quality porcelain perfectly suited to its time and is recognised the world over.
The roots of Bernardaud are in the Limoges region, the cradle of the French porcelain industry where Bernardaud was set up in 1863 and where the present factory is located. This brand quickly became a leader in its field and it emerged as a favourite amongst the Royalty of Europe. The Bernardaud name and company has survived through many difficult times including the two World Wars and the recent serious economic crises which have proven fatal for a number of porcelain manufacturers.
Bernardaud has been a forerunner in the field of porcelain manufacturing and since 1920 has made serious investments to ensure constant improvements in production for an ever-increasing demand. Bernardaud has set up three production units to meet the requirements of both skill and technology. At one end of the scale is the original 1863 factory symbolic of the tradition of Limoges porcelain and at the other end is the new premises at Aixes-Sur- Vienne representing the latest in modern technological advances.
A trendsetter in design, Bernardaud’s porcelain collections are characterised by delicate colours and original forms. Traditional or contemporary, the Bernardaud collections elegantly modernise the art of entertaining. Bernardaud porcelain meets the most demanding client requirements with product of stunning design, meticulous quality and patterns that are suitable for everyday use or very special events . Bernardaud is renowned for high quality porcelain perfectly suited to its time and the product range offers models suitable for all uses from everyday to the very exceptional.
Bernardaud has always been innovative and some of its more striking innovations have been virtual revolutions in style. Bernardaud was the first, for example, to bring out square porcelain flatware. Bernardaud knows the value of the work and inspiration of great names from the world of art and design. They have worked with Kees Van Dongen, Raymond Loewy, Bernard Buffet and many others. The history of Bernardaud is punctuated with the names of many artists and designers who, thanks to their talent and creativity, have enriched the collection: Hervé Van der Straeten is a vastly talented and eclectic creative force whose designs often involve cobalt blue decorations. Martin Szekely's 'Crown' vase is a very special limited edition item. Bernardaud’s emblematic designer, Olivier Gagnère rethought the cup and his designs have endured the test of time. A recent release was a limited edition dinnerware service that was originally designed by Marc Chagall in a ceramic workshop in Vallauris and presented to his daughter Ida on the occasion of her wedding in 1952.
Lithophanie collection:
In 1991 Bernardaud brought votive candles up to date under the leadership of chief modeller Christian Brunet whose talent has gained widespread acclaim. The factory has created over 60 original models. These are made in a traditional technique of engraving on a delicate biscuit. With the light revealed by the fire of the candle the decoration is visible in the different densities of the material. It alters in transparency in a sophisticated game of shadows and light revealing all the subtlety of detail and perspective. Exquisite as a single item in a bedroom, bathroom or living area and sensational when placed at each individual table setting, Bernardaud’s Lithophanie has become a most sought after gift.
Jewellery:
Bernardaud has created collections of jewellery that reveal the extraordinary sensuality of porcelain. These little precious objects (like table services, but on a smaller scale) express one's 'individuality'.
Bernardaud Hotel:
This is porcelain for commercial use at the high end of the hospitality industry. Bernardaud’s meticulous attention to detail ensures a superior product and cresting or badging is a speciality.
Lighting and furniture:
With designs that are sought after by an excluside clientele this is a rapidly expanding business area. Wall lights, centre lights and other decorative furniture items are integrated in a special workshop.
