porcelany

Porcelany is the Polish term for porcelain, a category of ceramic wares and bodies known for whiteness, translucency, and durability. Porcelain items are typically made from a composition that includes kaolin (china clay), feldspar, and quartz, which, when fired at high temperatures, form a vitrified, non-porous material. There are two main families: hard-paste porcelain, originally developed in China and later adopted in Europe, and soft-paste porcelain, an earlier European attempt with different formulations. Bone china, developed in England, is a well-known variant that includes bone ash and offers high whiteness and translucency.

History: Chinese porcelain originated during the Tang to Song periods and reached a high level of refinement in the Ming and Qing dynasties, becoming highly valued and widely traded. European porcelain industries began in the early 18th century with Meissen in Germany, followed by firms in France (Sèvres), Britain, and elsewhere. These developments spread the production of porcelain wares beyond Asia and led to a large market for tableware and decorative objects.

Production: The porcelain body is shaped by wheel throwing, slip casting, or molding. After shaping, items undergo a biscuit firing to about 800–1000°C, followed by the application of glaze and a second firing at roughly 1200–1400°C. This process yields a dense, vitrified, and glossy surface that is less prone to staining and easier to decorate.

Uses and culture: Porcelany are used for dinnerware, figurines, tiles, and sanitary wares, as well as for collectible and artistic objects. The term porcelain, and its Polish equivalent, reflect a long history of technical innovation and international trade.