Iznik
Iznik ceramics are sold in a wide array of products, such as ceramic plates, ceramic bowls, ceramic pitchers, ceramic tiles, and other items for a specific use or decoration. These regional ceramics are known for their beauty, decorative artwork, and functionality.
Iznik Turkish ceramics developed during the late fifteenth century just after the Ottoman Court was established in the former capital of the Byzantine Empire. The court had requests and demands that gave rise to the production of ceramics in the region for years to come.
While Iznik ceramics thrived through the 16th century, their popularity declined during the 17th century. During this time, they were a domestic market product of the Ottoman Empire. The decline led to the exportation of the product throughout Europe where people began creating imitations of Iznik works. Despite this, there’s nothing quite like a local Iznik ceramic.
Kütahya Ceramics
Kütahya ceramics rose during the 18th century and quickly replaced Anatolia as the center of ceramic production. Ceramics in Kütahya had been the second leading center (along with Iznik) since the 14th century until the production of Iznik works slowed.
In the early stages of Kütahya ceramics, many products resembled Iznik works in colors before become more unique in form, color, and techniques. Among the unique designs were several Christian utensils and tiles with religious themes that were primarily made by Armenian potters for their home churches.
During the early years of the 19th century, the industry faced a downturn and a slow recovery. Because of this, Kütahya ceramics can be found today in many historic buildings and churches throughout Turkey.
Çanakkale Ceramics
Çanakkale ceramics originated in the 17th century and developed from the concepts of Iznik ceramics, but in a unique design. Creating Çanakkale ceramics is a slow process that takes time and patience to create.
Each Çanakkale ceramic has its own unique appearance, with products ranging from plates, bowls, bottles, gas lamps, vases, animal figurines, and more. After shaping, the ceramics were covered in either engobe or earthenware and left in the sun to dry prior to painting.
These ceramics saw an increase in popularity during the 17th century as the production of Iznik works decreased. Much of their success is credited to foreigners who traveled to Çanakkale and purchased the ceramics as gifts or souvenirs, rather than daily use.
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