Continuity and renewal

The cradle of ceramics since the 18th century, Lorraine is one of France's oldest production sites. For more than 200 years, the potteries of Niderviller, Lunéville-Saint-Clément and Sarreguemines have sparked the dreams of fans of Art Nouveau and Art Deco around the world. Today, this cultural heritage is preserved, notably in the Faience Museum in Sarreguemines. From iconic pieces to the rarest models, collections continue to enrapture tableware enthusiasts, and inspire a new generation of ceramists.

The Manufacture des Émaux in Longwy also bears witness to Lorraine's craftsmanship. Founded in 1798 and awarded the EPV label ("Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant"), this illustrious firm, still active today, perpetuates an ancestral tradition imported from Asia: "cloisonné" enamel. Its studios produce sublime vases, plates, dishes, and other decorative items of striking beauty. With exquisite motifs in vibrant colours, these unique pieces, soft to the touch, are known worldwide for their beauty and handcrafted quality. From iconic pieces to contemporary designs, resulting from partnerships with prestigious brands such as Dior or Saint Laurent, Longwy enamels fly the flag of French expertise.

Sacred treasures

For generations, glassmakers have transformed matter into fusion, keeping thousand year-old legacy alive. Monumental works, from workshops or factories, stained-glass windows, sculptures, lighting, tableware… Glass is revealed in all its forms and beyond our frontiers. In 2023, UNESCO consecrated glassmaking know-how by including it in its Intangible Cultural Heritage, honouring the excellence of renowned manufacturers such as Baccarat, Daum, Lalique and Saint-Louis. Guardians of tradition, they now welcome the creativity of young designers, exploring new horizons with decidedly modern design.

In the Grand Est, places of worship contain unsuspected gems. In the chapel of the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Reims, Marc Chagall's stained-glass windows are mesmerizing for their shimmering colours which change throughout the day in a play on light and transparency. Through these bluish sheens, biblical stories are entwined with the History of the Coronations. A fascinating achievement we owe to the French-Russian artist and the expertise of Simon-Marq master glassmakers. Founded in 1640, a holder of the EPV label, this workshop in Reims sublimates stained-glass windows from all eras and creates contemporary artworks. An ode to beauty and light, to be discovered in the basement of the Church of the Sacré-Coeur on guided tours of this institution in Champagne.

Workshops to rouse the senses

Textiles, leather, crystal, stained-glass, furniture, clay or cabinet making…, the Grand Est is an amazing concentration of talented artists and craftsmen. Their hands glorify the excellent knowhow contributing to its rich heritage. Open to the public, immersive "Sens & Matières" workshops – run by the "Chambre de Métiers et de l’Artisanat du Grand Est" – invite the curious and families to participate in creating objects.