Our Collaborations

One of the highlights of working in porcelain is the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and companies who appreciate works of art and are passionate about hand-crafted products. We regularly are asked to work with designers and leading brands and are always delighted to see the final product of our combined endeavours. It is a testament to our customers and friends that believe in us and the continuance of these unique skills.

Sitzendorf

In 2023, we decided that it was time to retrace our roots in Germany and in particular the region of Thuringia, famous for its porcelain figurines. We met with Carla and Uwe Hermann of the renowned Sitzendorfer Porzelllan Manufaktur. We bonded over coffee and Carla’s magnificent cakes! Together, we decided that we should work on a series of porcelain figurine collectibles showcasing the unique artistry and shared history of our companies. Sitzendorf was founded in 1850. Irish Dresden in 1907.

Sitzendorfer Porzellan Manufaktur, Sitzendorf, Germany
Company founded: 1850
Owners: Carla & Uwe Hermann

The story of Sitzendorf is in many ways similar to that of Irish Dresden except that it remained behind the Iron Curtain after the 2nd World War. It continued to produce porcelain figurines. The company was dispossessed from Carla Hermann’s parents and nationalised as the East German Communist regime realised that the business could export its products to the US, Japan, England, Austria, Switzerland and Italy in return for valuable foreign currency! In this way, the company (though not in private hands) managed to survive the difficult economic conditions of the time. Thankfully in 1990, after the fall of Communism in Europe, Carla and her husband Uwe were able to buy back her family company.

Sitzendorf porcelain factory today

The figurines in our Irish Dresden x Sitzendorf collection have been designed by Sitzendorf’s renowned artist, Max Siegel. As such they are a rare and unique addition to porcelain figurine history. Max Siegel is responsible for some of Sitzendorf’s iconic pieces including the famous ‘Last Supper’ comprising over 110 individual parts!

The Last Supper, designed by artist Max Siegel

We are delighted to be part of this fascinating story and shared heritage.

The Irish Dresden x Sitzendorf Collection can be viewed here »

Hello Kitty

Who is Hello Kitty? She is described in Japanese as a gijinka or personification of a Japanese cat.

She was born in the suburbs of London, England on the 1st November although we cannot be sure of the year (however King Charles recently may have let the secret out!)

Her height is described as 5 apples. She is a bright and kind-hearted cat and likes to play the piano and collect nice things. Her favourite subjects in school are English, music and art.

The Hello Kitty x Irish Dresden Collection is her porcelain replica and a pleasure for collectors to behold with her beautiful hand-painted face and porcelain lace. Each piece is unique.

The Irish Dresden x Hello Kitty Collection can be viewed here »