Reves d'Argile: Pottery from the Provence Hills
The Journey: Sourcing Artisan Goods in France
There are certain places in Provence that feel like a little secret, tucked away and waiting to be discovered. Monique Montgaillard’s pottery studio is one of those places.
I had heard about a truly special artisanal potter in a remote village near Avignon and decided to make my way into the hills of Provence to visit her the last time I was in France. The drive along winding hills through the scenic Provençal countryside was beautiful, but nothing prepared me for what I found when I arrived.
The Atelier: Rêves d’Argile (Dreams of Clay)
Monique’s home and studio are one and the same, in a cottage hidden in a nook on an unmarked dirt road. Stepping inside felt like entering a potter’s haven. Her handmade ceramics filled every corner—stacked on shelves, gathered on tables and lining the windowsills in the afternoon light. There was an abundance of bowls, vases and small dishes everywhere I looked, each one more beautiful than the next.
I immediately noticed that there was something ancient and elemental about her work, an earthiness that no glossy, factory-made ceramic could ever replicate. I wanted to take it all in…and, of course, bring everything home!
The Inspiration & Process
Monique walked me through her process: For her designs, she finds inspiration from nature, the plants in her home garden, and antique items. First, each design is hand sculpted using black clay and a volcanic ash slip. Some pieces are formed using antique molds found in brocantes, telling stories of French kitchens from long ago. Next, each one is stamped with one of her delicate patterns. Finally, a white majolica glaze (which she crafts herself!) is applied and the pieces are placed in the kiln. The glazing and firing process may be repeated up to four times to create that gorgeous, almost translucent white enamel finish with visible hints of the contrasting black clay underneath. Even pieces with the same design have slight variations and imperfections, making each one a work of art.
The Collection: Rêves d’Argile Chez Les Fleurs
I’m so excited to share our curated collection of Monique’s Rêves d’Argile tableware at Les Fleurs. Each piece carries a little of the beauty, artistry, and timeless charm of her Provençal studio.
If you find yourself near Avignon, her remote yet charming studio is truly worth discovering. And if Provence isn’t in your plans just yet, come visit us at the shop and see the beautiful pieces we brought home. I have a feeling you’ll love them as much as I do.
À bientôt,
Sandra
Monique Montgaillard, Rêves d’Argile
Petite artisan ceramic scalloped compote dish, handmade by Provence potter Monique Montgaillard of Rêves d’Argile (“dreams of clay”). Use as a small dish for candy or nuts, a ring or trinket dish or display in a vignette on a table or shelf.
Each pottery design, inspired by nature and antiques, is hand sculpted or molded using black clay and a volcanic ash slip with a gorgeous white majolica glaze. Sold individually. Additional items shown are sold separately.
To learn more about our visit to this artisan potter and her designs, see our Rêves d’Argile blog post here.
4.5” D x 2.5” H
Black clay and volcanic ash slip
White majolica glaze enameled finish.
Hand wash.
Handmade in a remote village in the South of France.