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Gzhel, not far from the city of Moscow, is known for its rich deposits of various fine clays suitable for the making of quality pottery. The Gzhel district is situated on the territories of Bronnitsky and Bogorodskoye districts. Some 30 villages in this neighborhood have long been engaged in the manufacture of wonderful china, faience, and majolica. The area's dense sprawling forests provide an endless supply of firewood for the kilns. Indeed, in the very name of Gzhel one hears an alliterative association with zhech, the Russian word for "burn". The first pottery workshop was established by Pavel Kulikov over 200 years ago. All the elements were locally produced: kilns, paints and brushes. A rich tradition of style was built up over many generations by hundreds of master potters and artists. Each piece becomes a decorative work of art. Russian Majolica |