Skrzywa

Skrzywa refers to a type of ceramics originating from Poland. These items range from decorative vessels to functional household items like plates and bowls. The technique used to create skrzywa involves pinch-potting or coiling, with the addition of patterns achieved through slip-trailing and carved footrings.

The term "skrzywa" can also denote a set of floral-patterned kitchenware items that are a staple in traditional Polish folk art. These ceramics, characterized by their rich ornamentation, usually depict flowers, leaves, or other organic patterns. Skrzywa craftsmanship often featured an emphasis on earth tones, floral patterns, and distinctive footrings carved directly onto the pot.

The vessels made using this technique typically exclude any handles, which can be seen as a defining trait of skrzywa ceramics. This focus on straightforward functionality allows craftsmen to focus their creative expression elsewhere, such as on decorative slip-trailing and impressed or carved designs. Christopher Dresser, an influential Victorian-era ceramics designer, included skrzywa pieces in his Industrial Museum exhibit to showcase the variety in domestic ceramics.

Skrzywa ceramics remain a celebrated part of Poland's cultural heritage, demonstrating an expertise in decorative art and handiwork passed down through generations.