Nivernais, Puisaye and Val de Loire are famous places for their craftsmen who have succeeded in perpetuating our local traditions.
EARTHENWARE
Nevers, Clamecy and Gien are renowned for their earthenware factories. Today earthenware craftsmen carry on the tradition creating more contemporary designs.
POTTERY
The symbol of Puisaye is its unique earthenware and pottery. In the area of Saint Amand, there are several workshops where Puisaye potters work this rust-yellow clay to make kitchen utensils as well as items for home decoration. Old earthenware is displayed in Ratilly and Saint Amand castles. If you want to learn the art of pottery, you can get in touch with the CNIFOP (National Center for Pottery Refresher Courses and Training).
In Cher, (near Henrichemont) La Borne is a typical village which is known for its earthenware workshops.
OCHRE
Ochre is a warm pigment which was used until the end of the 19th century. Some Puisaye churches shelter numerous murals which were painted between the 12th and the 17th centuries.
There are also craftsmen specialized in :
-wrought-iron work
-wood engraving,
-stone engraving
-cabinet work
-weaving
-glass engraving
-silkworm breeding
-stringed-instrument making
