Ceramic Design Culture in Kütahya and Reflections of Cultural Diversity

Abstract

Kütahya has been an important ceramic production center of Anatolia for centuries and it understatedly reflects the impact of the cultural diversity of craftsmen and consumers on its unique craft culture. Ceramics produced in Kütahya have an important place in classical Ottoman craftsmanship since these ceramics embrace new patterns, forms, colors, and also different cultures in local ceramic art influenced by regional demands. Kütahya ceramics as one of the most powerful reservoirs of inspirational crafts infuse unique handicraft everyday objects with Anatolian heritage, influences of Asian and European design trends, and requirements of the Mediterranean market. This study aims to reveal out the overlooked impact of cultural diversity on Kütahya ceramics which has influenced the development of ceramic design culture in the city since the 17th and 18th century. Considering the value of Anatolian design culture, Kütahya ceramics provide a unique perspective with their cultural history which contributed to the city’s journey to become a creative city recognized by UNESCO and continue to inspire contemporary ceramic production in the city.

Keywords

• kütahya ceramics
• mediterranean arts
• cultural diversity
• local crafts
• design culture