Rooted in the homeland - made for the future

For over 500 years, Gmundner Keramik has been synonymous with high-quality craftsmanship deeply rooted in Austrian tradition. In the picturesque town of Gmunden, at the heart of the idyllic Salzkammergut region, every piece is still made by hand. Each product that leaves the manufactory is unique—moulded, painted, and finished by skilled painters and ceramists. This commitment to quality and originality has established Gmundner Keramik as a flagship of Austrian culture and lifestyle.

The ceramics are produced through an intricate process that involves over 60 steps, with much of the work being done by hand. From molding and glazing to the intricate painting of designs, each phase demands skilled craftsmanship and extensive experience. Notably, the technique known as ‘flaming,’ where organic, characteristic patterns are applied by hand, is a true art form in itself. This technique requires two years of training and was recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage in 2021.

Gmunden has long been a center of Austrian ceramic artistry, and the region itself provides ideal conditions for the craft. Skilled painters and ceramists are trained here, ensuring that traditional production techniques are passed down through generations. The Academy of Ceramics, founded in 2022, actively fosters this exchange of knowledge, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary art in an innovative way.

Despite its deep roots in tradition, Gmundner Keramik is a forward-looking company. Modern designs complement its classic offerings, and the company embraces creative collaborations, such as with Studio Vivienne Westwood. Additionally, influences from distant cultures, exemplified by the Africa collection, continually enrich the company’s cultural heritage. Joint projects with renowned national and international artists, including Ai Weiwei, Kim Simonsson, and Elmar Trenkwalder, further enhance and diversify the brand’s identity.

Gmundner Keramik represents traditional, exquisite tableware while embodying a piece of living Austrian culture. Its unmistakable designs, especially the famous green-flamed patterns, symbolize quality and timeless tradition on a global scale—and are passed down from generation to generation. Whether on the family dinner table, in upscale restaurants, or as an official award for the Austrian Music Theatre Prize, the carefully crafted pieces from Gmunden are symbols of consistency and authenticity. As such, the manufactory will continue to serve as an ambassador of Austrian craftsmanship in the future.

Vivienne Westwood Image: © Andreas Tischler