Turkey has a rich tradition of pottery, dating back thousands of years. From simple earthenware to intricately painted ceramics, Turkish pottery comes in a wide variety of styles and designs. If you’re visiting Turkey and want to take home a piece of this beautiful art form, here’s a guide to traditional Turkish pottery and where to buy it.
Types of Turkish Pottery
Turkish pottery can be broadly divided into two categories: functional and decorative. Functional pottery includes items such as bowls, plates, cups, and pitchers, which are designed to be used in everyday life. Decorative pottery, on the other hand, includes items such as vases, tiles, and figurines, which are primarily intended for display.
Some of the most common types of Turkish pottery include:
- İznik ceramics: These intricately painted ceramics originated in the town of İznik in the 15th century. İznik ceramics are characterized by their vibrant blue, green, and red colors, as well as their floral and geometric patterns.
- Çanakkale ceramics: These ceramics are made in the town of Çanakkale and are known for their durability and simple yet elegant designs.
- Karacasu ceramics: Made in the town of Karacasu, these ceramics are distinguished by their use of red clay and black glaze.
- Avanos ceramics: Avanos is a town in the Cappadocia region that is famous for its pottery. Avanos ceramics are known for their intricate designs and bright colors.
Where to Buy Turkish Pottery
There are many places in Turkey where you can buy traditional Turkish pottery.
Here are some of the best options:
- Grand Bazaar, Istanbul: The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Here, you can find a wide variety of Turkish pottery, from simple earthenware to exquisite İznik ceramics.
- Çanakkale Ceramics Museum, Çanakkale: This museum in the town of Çanakkale not only showcases traditional Turkish ceramics but also sells them in its gift shop.
- Avanos, Cappadocia: The town of Avanos is home to many pottery workshops and stores. You can watch artisans at work and purchase their creations directly from them.
- Kutahya: Kutahya is a city in western Turkey that is known for its ceramics. The city has a long history of pottery production, dating back to the Byzantine era. Today, there are many stores and workshops in Kutahya where you can buy traditional Turkish pottery.
Tips for Buying Turkish Pottery
- Look for quality: Traditional Turkish pottery is handmade, which means that there may be some variations in quality from piece to piece. Look for pieces that are well-crafted and have a smooth finish.
- Ask about the design: Many traditional Turkish pottery designs have symbolic meanings. Ask the artisan or shopkeeper about the significance of the design before you buy.
- Consider the size: Turkish pottery comes in a wide range of sizes, from small decorative items to large urns. Make sure you have enough space to accommodate the piece you want to buy.
Conclusion
Traditional Turkish pottery is a beautiful and unique art form that is deeply rooted in Turkish culture. By following these tips and visiting some of the best places to buy Turkish pottery, you can bring a piece of this rich tradition home with you.
