Today, retro style and 1970s tableware are making a strong comeback in our homes. Among the most sought-after treasures for bargain hunters and second-hand decor enthusiasts, ceramic dinnerware stamped "Grès Village" (often associated with the CNP France brand) holds a special place.
Between rustic aesthetics, robustness, and warm living, delve into the history of this vintage ceramic that has become a must-have.
What is "Grès Village" (CNP France)?
Behind the name Grès Village lies an iconic production of French stoneware that was very popular during the second half of the 20th century. Distributed under the CNP (Comptoir National de Potterie / Céramique) brand, this dinnerware is recognizable at first glance:
The material: A heavy, dense, and thick stoneware, fired at high temperatures, guaranteeing unfailing solidity.
The colors: A natural palette dominated by warm tones (beige, honey, earthy brown, mineral grey).
The finishes: A subtly speckled appearance, effects of glossy or satin enamel glaze, and sometimes hand-painted decorations (discreet floral motifs, rural or rustic touches).
Iconic pieces from the collection
The "Grès Village" range was designed to equip the entire home, from the kitchen to the dining table. It features a wide variety of utilitarian objects that have become purely decorative today:
Table services: Flat plates, deep plates (often in a bowl format), and dessert plates, often with a slight relief or ribbing accentuating their edges.
Serving pieces: Round or oval cheese platters, tureens, vegetable dishes, pitchers, and punch or sangria sets.
Thematic tableware: Very popular in the 70s, specific services like fondue plates, stoneware raclette pans, or compartmentalized serving trays attest to the conviviality of the era.
Breakfast and storage: Rustic bowls, coffee cups or mazagrans, condiment jars, and oil pourers.
Why is vintage stoneware so appealing today?
In a daily life where decoration seeks meaning, experience, and durability, Grès Village dinnerware ticks all the boxes:
The Wabi-Sabi and Country Chic spirit: Its charming imperfections, rough textures, and "earthy" feel immediately warm up a modern kitchen or dining room.
Eco-responsibility: Opting for second-hand ceramic means embracing an anti-waste approach while acquiring superior quality dinnerware, much more resistant than current standard industrial production.
Versatility: It pairs equally well with a large raw wooden table as it does with a minimalist or bohemian-inspired interior.
Where to find Grès Village pieces?
Our online selection: Find a carefully curated selection of available pieces (oil and vinegar dispensers, plates, and serving dishes) directly on our shop.
Second-hand platforms: Peer-to-peer resale sites like Vinted, Leboncoin, or Etsy sometimes abound with gems from the 70s.
Flea markets and garage sales: The field remains the best way to stumble upon a complete set or a rare piece found at a turning point in an aisle.
Do you also own pieces from the Grès Village collection in your crockery cupboard, or do you love hunting for these seventies treasures? Share your best finds in the comments!