A painter from the celebrated Sèvres Porcelain Manufactory will introduce participants through a hands-on workshop to the traditions of French painted porcelain. Inspired by decorative motifs developed by Sèvres designers in the 18th century, participants will experiment with pigments and techniques to explore design, textures, and color and develop their own sensibility and style.

Founded in 1740 at Vincennes under the patronage of Louis XV and Madame de Pompadour, the factory moved to Sèvres in 1756 where it has remained as the preeminent producer of French porcelain. Sèvres is renowned for its exquisitely designed and decorated porcelain ceramics and works by the manufactory are in major museums around the world, including Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Louvre, the V&A, and the State Hermitage Museum.

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About the Design by Hand series

Launched in partnership with Van Cleef & Arpels in fall 2013, the Design by Hand series focuses on the craftsmanship, innovations, and merits of contemporary global designers. Special programs connect university students, high school students, adults, and families with design.

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