A Journey through the History of Decorative Art.

The Elegance of Valencian Ceramics in a Dream Palace.

The González Martí National Museum of Ceramics and Sumptuary Arts, located in the heart of Valencia, is a cultural treasure trove that celebrates Spain's rich ceramic tradition and decorative art. Housed in the impressive Palace of the Marquis of Dos Aguas, this museum is a jewel both for its content and for its continent. Below, we explore the most outstanding and unique elements of this extraordinary museum.

History and Architecture

Origins of the Museum:

The museum was founded in 1947 thanks to the donation of the private collection of ceramics and art of the scholar and collector Manuel González Martí. Since its establishment, the museum has grown to become one of the most important institutions of its kind in Europe, standing out for its extensive collection of ceramics, furniture, textiles and other objects of sumptuary art.

The Palace of the Marquis of Dos Aguas.

The Palace of the Marquis of Dos Aguas, a masterpiece of Valencian Baroque, is home to the museum. This 18th-century building is famous for its opulent façade, sculpted in alabaster and decorated with mythological and allegorical figures. The interior of the palace is equally impressive, with richly decorated halls that transport visitors back to the golden age of the Valencian aristocracy.

Featured Collections

Valencian Ceramics

The ceramics collection is the heart of the museum, with pieces spanning from antiquity to the 20th century. The ceramics of Manises, Paterna and Alcora stand out for their quality and diversity. The Valencian tiles and earthenware pieces show the evolution of techniques and styles over the centuries, reflecting both local and international influences.

Decorative Art

In addition to ceramics, the museum houses a rich collection of sumptuary arts including furniture, textiles, jewelry, and watches. These objects offer a complete vision of the luxury and sophistication of the decorative arts in Spain. Especially noteworthy are the Rococo and Neoclassical style furniture, as well as the Flemish and Spanish tapestries that adorn the walls of the palace.

Thematic Exhibitions

The museum organizes themed exhibitions that allow visitors to delve into specific aspects of its collection. These temporary exhibitions address topics such as the evolution of ceramics, the influence of foreign cultures on Spanish decorative art, and traditional craft techniques. These temporary exhibitions enrich the visitor's experience and offer new perspectives on the permanent collection.

Educational and Cultural Activities

The González Martí National Museum of Ceramics and Sumptuary Arts is dedicated to education and cultural dissemination. It offers a variety of educational activities, such as pottery workshops, guided tours, and lectures on art and crafts. These programmes are designed to appeal to a diverse audience, from schoolchildren to adults, and to encourage interest and knowledge about Valencia's ceramic and artistic heritage.

The Restoration Workshop

One of the highlights of the museum is its restoration workshop, where experts work on the conservation and restoration of historical pieces. This workshop not only ensures the preservation of cultural heritage, but also allows visitors to observe the restoration process live, providing unique insight into the techniques and challenges involved in art conservation.

The González Martí National Museum of Ceramics and Sumptuary Arts is a testimony to the splendour and richness of the Valencian artistic tradition. Located in the magnificent Palace of the Marquis of Dos Aguas, this museum offers a unique experience that combines architectural beauty with a world-class collection of decorative art. Visiting this museum is an invaluable opportunity to immerse yourself in the history, art and crafts of Valencia and Spain.

National Museum of Ceramics and Sumptuary Arts González Martí

Museum dedicated to ceramics in Valencia.

Address:

Calle Poeta Querol, 2, 46002, Valencia

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