The clay figurines of Provence reflect the traditions of Provence. Today, these figurines are mainly used for the celebration of Christmas in the homes of Provence.
The figurines are staged to relive the birth of Jesus and maintain the Christian tradition.
The first staging of a live nativity scene was created by Saint Francis of Assisi, during a mass in the forest of Abruzzo (Italy - 1224) during the 13th century. In the 19th century, the first masters of Provence figurines appeared in the town of Aubagne. Today, Marseilles is the capital of the figurines of Provence.
A tradition of more than 200 years, many craftsmen and a small number of companies produce different types of ceramics.
The main ceramics from Provence are: stoneware, floor tiles, clay roof tiles, glazed lava, and pottery.
The earthenware of Apt, which appeared in the first half of the 18th century, is appreciated and chosen to decorate the local habitats. Its transparent glaze and the texture of its fine ceramic paste have made its fame. Many colors are used: from pale yellow to orange yellow, green, blue, a rainbow of colors.
