Audiotur The Anduze Vase Route

Since the Middle Ages, Anduze has been recognised as an important centre for the production of pottery, crockery of all kinds, tiles, drainpipes, and oil jars. It was in the 17th century that the famous Vase d'Anduze was created, designed mainly to hold orange and lemon trees.

Legend has it that this horticultural vase dates back to the time of Henri IV (1610) and was invented by a potter from Anduze who was inspired by Italian vases of the Medici type.

Another legend claims that Anduze vases adorned the gardens of Versailles at the time of the Sun King. The accounts of the King's household do not mention any orders from Anduze, but shards found on site indicate their presence in the great Parisian gardens.

Throughout the 19th century, the business flourished and many potters in the Anduze region began producing garden vases. This became a speciality that set them apart from other Languedoc producers.

The Anduze vase is characterised by its inverted bell shape on a foot. It is made up of at least two garlands and two macaroons for the smaller ones. The vase has several horizontal striations in the first third, above the foot and below the neck. Although the Vase d'Anduze is traditionally flamed (honey, green and brown), they are now also available in many other colours. There is a choice of a wide range of sizes, from small flowerpots to large orangery vases, sometimes over a metre high.

Today's manufacturers have innovated to adapt to current trends and more contemporary interior decorating desires... While respecting ancestral techniques, each piece of pottery is distinguished by its glazes, patinas and shaping techniques.

This tourist route, which can be done by car, is the only way to guarantee visitors a quality Vase d'Anduze, made with respect for tradition.

To find the first potter ‘Les Enfants de Boisset’, take the road to St Jean du Gard and drive about 2 kilometres.