From kaolin to art – the production behind Bernardaud

The production of Bernardaud porcelain is both art and science. Each piece begins with a careful mixture of kaolin, quartz and feldspar, which is shaped through casting or calibration processes. Drying, first firing, glazing and second firing follow – where the latter, known as le grand feu, takes place at 1,400°C to ensure transparency, strength and a perfect finish.

Finally, each piece undergoes meticulous quality control. More than 25% are rejected for not meeting Bernardaud’s uncompromising standards. The decorated collections require even greater precision – here everything from hand-applied decorations and transfers to gold inlays and relief is used. Bernardaud is among the few in the world with its own printing facility and workshop for special decoration.

Creativity and heritage in one tableware

Bernardaud has never stood still. Under Pierre Bernardaud in the 1980s, isostatic pressing was introduced, which revolutionised the production of flat pieces such as plates. Design icons such as Raymond Loewy were invited to create modern collections, and the company was among the first in France to launch a TV commercial for porcelain – one of many examples of their ability to combine tradition with innovation.

Michel Bernardaud and the future

Today, Bernardaud is led by Michel Bernardaud, fifth generation in the porcelain dynasty. Under his leadership, the company has gained global recognition and is represented in more than 80 countries. At the same time, he has maintained a focus on rare techniques such as engraving and gold polishing – and on keeping the craftsmanship alive in a modern world.

Bernardaud now operates from two large production units in the Limoges area with an annual production of more than two million pieces of porcelain. Collections such as Ecume are particularly popular in Denmark – not least among Michelin-starred restaurants and gastronomic frontrunners, where presentation must match taste.