Céramique Vallauris Grandjean-Jourdan Studio Glazed Plate
Ceramic Tableware (Plate/Saucer) · Grandjean-Jourdan workshop located in Vallauris, France. This family workshop was a cornerstone of the mid-century ceramic revival in the region.
Pattern: Vallauris Studio Ware, characterized by its distinctive dark metallic or 'oil-spot' glazes.
Type
Ceramic Tableware (Plate/Saucer)
Maker
Grandjean-Jourdan workshop located in Vallauris, France. This family workshop was a cornerstone of the mid-century ceramic revival in the region.
Material
Glazed red or white earthenware (terracotta clay base) with a high-fired metallic oxide glaze. Contains no silver metal; the 'silver' appearance is a result of the glaze chemistry.
Dimensions
Estimated 15-20 cm in diameter. Generally weighs between 200-400 grams depending on clay thickness.
Description
A striking example of French studio pottery from the iconic Vallauris region. This piece features a deep, lustrous glaze that mimics the reflective properties of polished silver or hematite. The underside reveals the hand-signed mark of the Grandjean-Jourdan studio, a respected name in the post-war ceramic movement. Its minimalist form allows the complex interplay of light on the dark glaze to take center stage.
Key Features
Incised cursive signature on bottom, highly reflective metallic glaze, unglazed foot rim showing the clay body, and consistent Mid-Century Modern proportions.
Material & Composition
Glazed red or white earthenware (terracotta clay base) with a high-fired metallic oxide glaze. Contains no silver metal; the 'silver' appearance is a result of the glaze chemistry.
Finish & Decoration
Iridescent glossy black/dark green metallic glaze. The finish creates a mirrored, silver-like reflective surface through the use of metallic oxides (likely manganese or iron) in the firing process.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Incised handwritten signature on the base: 'Céramique Vallauris Grandjean-Jourdan'. These are not silver hallmarks but potter's marks indicating workshop origin.
Construction Details
Thrown on a potter's wheel or press-molded, followed by an incised signature in the wet clay, bisque firing, glazing, and a final glost firing.
Functional Features
Functional serving plate with a raised foot rim and concave center. The glaze is generally food-safe but can be prone to scratching.
Handle & Grip Details
None; standard circular plate form with a defined foot ring for stability.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-signed and studio-finished. The glaze application shows professional control, avoiding pooling or runs, which indicates a high-quality kiln firing.
Authentication Indicators
The fluid, handwritten 'Ceramique Vallauris' signature is consistent with verified Grandjean-Jourdan pieces. The 'metallic' look is a classic characteristic of this specific workshop's output.
Origin & Manufacturing
Vallauris, Alpes-Maritimes, France. A town famous for its traditional and artistic pottery since Roman times.
Era & Period
French Mid-Century Modern (The Golden Age of Vallauris, 1950s-1960s). This era was heavily influenced by the presence of Pablo Picasso in the village.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the style of the signature and the metallic glaze trend popular during that decade.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII artistic explosion in Southern France where utilitarian pottery was elevated to the status of fine art and high design.
Condition Notes
The glaze appears to be in very good condition with high gloss. Some minor kiln stilt marks or surface 'flea bites' may be present. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$40 - $120 USD depending on size and market. Plates are common, but signed studio pieces maintain steady value among Mid-Century collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash only with mild soap. Avoid abrasive pads which can dull the metallic glaze. Not recommended for microwave use due to metallic oxide content in the glaze.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with works by other Vallauris potters like Jacques Innocenti or Robert Picault, but distinguished by the specific Grandjean-Jourdan signature and the preference for dark, lustrous glazes over polychrome patterns.
Interesting Facts
While this looks like silver, it is actually a ceramic masterpiece. The Grandjean-Jourdan workshop was one of the largest and most successful in Vallauris during the time Picasso lived and worked there, helping to turn the village into a global art hub.