The classic line of Polish porcelain figurines known as Cmielow, marked by their elegance, clean lines and sleek artistry. Long a household name and collectors’ favourite in Poland as well as all over the world, the Cmielow have been manufactured since 1790.

The village of Cmielow was granted official town status as far back as 1510 by King Alexander the Jagiellon of Poland. The town was built on a type of soil that would dictate its future: rich loam and clayey soil. It was perfect for pottery. And it wasn’t long before the townspeople earned a reputation across their homeland for the earthenenware that they produced in their little workshops.

Throughout the next century, the name Cmielow became synonymous with porcelain, china and fine pottery, and in 1810, the first pottery factory opened. As word spread, production increased, and by the late 1800’s, more than 250 artisans were putting their personal touches on fine china, and the city became the largest center of china manufacturing in Poland.

The Cmielow artistry went on to earn a global reputation. Throughout the 20th century, the china pieces were augmented by figurines, brilliantly coloured and streamlined animals, female figures and small groups of musicians. There are wonderfully stylish cats, elegantly arrogant giraffes and bichromatic African women.

And even though the factory had to survive two world wars, Communism and, in 1964, a fire that destroyed many original molds, the Cmielow's reputation for fine pottery never flickered.

Shortly after the fall of communism in 1991 the factory once again started to make the high quality porcelain it was famous for. The old molds that survived were reused once again with the implementation of exactly the same techniques as in the 1950’s. Therefore many of the Cmielow products available are true descendants of the original classics.

Nowadays, apart from table porcelain, Cmielow is known world wide for its porcelain figures. Each figure has its number, certificate of authenticity and a certificate of the national Artistic Commission and Ethnographic Foundation of Polish Art and Handicraft. Some editions come in limited number which makes them even more desirable for both private collectors and galleries.

Cmielow handmade miniature sculptures were presented at the fairs and exhibitions around the world, and are admired in numerous art galleries in New York, Paris, London, Berlin, Moscow.

We are proud to share this part of Polish heritage with all who love beautiful artistry.