The Delicate Nuances

of Imperfection—Ceramics

by Mathilde Martin

Mathilde Martin is a firm believer in the transformative power of aesthetics. There is more to her work than mere craftsmanship—it’s a philosophy, an ode to simplicity and harmony. She strongly embraces the power of beauty, which is probably why she creates pieces that are capable of elevating entire spaces. Even so, the true beauty of her ceramic works is often to be found in their imperfection.

Mathilde Martin’s work is quiet, understated and raw. Perfection is revealed in the unfinished: frayed edges, finger taps, only seeming imbalances. No piece resembles another. There is nothing that is loud, not the colors, not the work, not the artist herself. Her poetic designs are created in absolute silence. Everything is done intuitively, almost sensitively, by following the flow.

It’s a feeling that has stayed with her since childhood. Ever since she attended a pottery course in the basement of her school in Brittany at the age of seven, she has been fascinated by the infinite modeling possibilities of clay. And just like her favorite material, Martin has lived several lives herself. She has studied history, obtained a CAP Cusine degree (Certificat d’Aptitude Professionnelle), has worked as a sommelier at Au Passage in Paris and at Koya in London. Eventually, she hung up her apron and committed herself to ceramics. A hobby that became second nature. After all, her desire to create something from scratch was immense and it remains so every day.

When Aesthetics Blend With Craftsmanship

The artist models, cuts, smooths and shapes each individual piece by hand with tremendous dedication. Her preferred technique is modeling—for her, a meditative process in which she feels the greatest connection with the material, which she handles with meticulous sensitivity. In her work, she exclusively uses French stoneware from Burgundy. From this, she creates archaic-looking vases in matt plaster white that resemble clouds, sculptural bowls with deep black textures reminiscent of lava and sandstone works that retain their original color. It takes up to three weeks to produce a ceramic object, which involves molding, drying, smoothing, firing in the kiln, and then immersing it in an enamel bath. Each piece is handmade and therefore unique—whether small to large orders, from minimalist vases and sculptural bowls to bespoke designer pieces for exclusive clients.

Mathilde Martin’s exceptional work has been drawing the attention of the luxury world for some time. She collaborates with international fashion and lifestyle brands such as Hermès, Saint Laurent and Poliform, for instance. Not to mention Castor Fleuriste, who wouldn’t display his artistic floral creations in any other vases than those of Martin, because for him the relationship between flowers and vases is essential. Her ceramics can be found in high-end boutiques as well as in exclusive hotels and private collections all over the world. Her sense of materiality and her talent for creating bespoke designs that fit perfectly into luxurious interiors are particularly renowned. Her artistic standards, however, always remain untouched: each piece is unique, preserving the soul of its material.