Bernard Palissy - Obsession, Faith and Myth

Bernard Palissy was an artist, scientist, inventor and one of the most extraordinary figures in the history of ceramics. Driven by religious faith, a fascination with nature, and an obsession to discover the secret of white enamel, he devoted years to relentless experimentation, sacrificing his fortune, and burning almost everything he owned in pursuit of perfection. In this episode Paul Greenhalgh and Stephanie Rozene uncover the remarkable life of the French Renaissance potter whose distinctive rustic wares transformed European ceramics.

Featured Artworks:

Self Portrait in Faience, Bernard Palissy, 1862

Rustique figuline, attributed to Bernard Palissy, French c.1560, J. Paul Getty Museum.

‘Rustique Figuline’ Dish with a white background, Bernard Palissy, c. 1550, National Ceramic Museum

Maiolica Plate, Italian, ca. 1500, The Met Collection, Public Domain

Bowl, Majolica, Italian, 1480-1500, The V&A Collection

Dish, Bernard Palissy, 17th century, The Met Collection, Public Domain

Plaque depicting Bernard Palissy, Multiple Artists and Makers, 1846, The Met Collection, Public Domain

Pilgrim Flask, Bernard Palissy, 1556-67, The Met Collection, Public Domain

Still-life platter, Bernard Palissy, c. 1550,

Dish, Bernard Palissy, c. 1580,