Rare Silesian ceramics from Prószków and Glinica are on display in Opole, highlighting two of Upper Silesia's most important faience workshops
The Museum of Opole Silesia is presenting Silesian Faience from the 18th and 19th Centuries: Prószków and Glinica, a temporary exhibition exploring the craftsmanship and artistic traditions of two of Upper Silesia's most significant ceramic production centres.
Running until 31 October 2026, the exhibition brings together an exceptional selection of historic faience from the extensive private collection of Professor Wojciech Kowalski, complemented by pieces from the museum's own holdings. Together, they offer an overview of the region's ceramic heritage at a time when faience was among Europe's most fashionable decorative arts.
Everyday Objects, Exceptional Craftsmanship
The exhibition features a wide variety of ceramics that once formed part of everyday life, while also demonstrating the skill of the craftsmen who produced them.
Among the highlights are terrines, perfume vases, tankards, decorative spice containers, an exceptionally rare Enghalskrug jug, a milk jug with unusual figurative decoration and even an original ceramic chamber pot. Visitors can also see examples of complete tableware alongside individual household objects, illustrating the breadth of production in both Prószków and Glinica.
Decorative figures depicting mythological characters, people and animals reveal another side of the factories' output, where practical ceramics were complemented by ornamental works that are now rarely preserved.
The Rise of Silesian Faience
As faience became increasingly popular across Europe during the 18th century, specialist workshops emerged throughout Upper Silesia. Prószków and Glinica developed distinctive styles while producing both everyday ceramics and more refined pieces known as fine faience.
Although ordinary faience survives in greater numbers today, the exhibition also includes a rare selection of fine faience, allowing visitors to compare the different techniques and decorative styles that defined production in the region.
A Collector's Contribution
A significant part of the exhibition comes from the collection of Professor Wojciech Wiktor Kowalski, a legal scholar, diplomat and internationally recognised specialist in European faience.
His collection has previously been presented in museums across Poland, including Gliwice, Wrocław, Toruń and Białystok. The objects displayed in Opole represent only part of a much larger collection assembled over many years and contribute to a broader understanding of Silesian ceramic production.
A richly illustrated catalogue accompanies the exhibition, providing detailed descriptions of every object on display.
Visitor Information
Exhibition: Silesian Faience from the 18th and 19th Centuries: Prószków and Glinica
Venue: Museum of Opole Silesia, Main Exhibition Building, Mały Rynek 7, Opole
Exhibition Dates: Until 31 October 2026
Admission to the Exhibition: Free
Accessibility: The exhibition is not accessible to visitors with mobility disabilities due to the absence of a lift.
Museum Opening Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
Thursday: 9:30 am – 6:00 pm
Friday: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sunday: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
The museum is also closed on the last Sunday of each month.