Palissy Ware

Christine Viennet was born in Norway and spent most of her youth studying in Switzerland and France. She has resided in France for many years, and is both a collector of ceramics (including a large 19th-century Palissy ware collection), and a professional ceramist specializing in high-relief ceramics both in the Palissy style as well as trompe l'oeil renditions of fruits and vegetables.

Her works are produced in a large studio with two or more assistants. Many of the elements are hand modeled while others are molded producing a highly realistic effect. Often one has to touch the vegetable or fruit to distinguish it from the real thing. Viennet's ceramics are exported to several countries, and are featured in department stores, gift shops, and other specialty retailers. Her work has been shown in museums and other exhibitions in France and abroad. Each piece is signed on the bottom "Christine Viennet" in large letters.

You may contact Viennet directly by phone, fax, or e-mail. She speaks and writes English fluently. Direct purchases are encouraged. If you would like to visit, you're in for a treat, for not only will you be able to view her studio and extensive showrooms, but you'll be able to see her many collections including Palissy ware, all beautifully displayed.

Béziers is located in the Languedoc region of France and is accessibly by plane, train, or car. The nearest best known towns are Montpellier to the northeast and Carcassonne to the southwest.