Our Story

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Terrafirma Ceramics, located in New York City, has designed and produced handmade functional American Art Pottery since its inception in 1980 by artist Ellen Evans.


As owner and artistic director of the Terrafirma studio, Ellen's creative focus is to design and produce high quality, functional works of art for the table and home using a unique, original process. Patterns are created by painting through textiles and lace using liquid porcelain to produce a distinctive "one of a kind" result. The base of warm, natural stoneware juxtaposed with vibrantly colored and patterned porcelain surfaces achieves the casual yet sophisticated look that has become her signature in both dinnerware and accessories.

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“In our homes today, we want beautiful artistic objects that we can use comfortably everyday. My goal is to design tableware that enriches the presentation of food and in itself makes an elegant statement…yet is practical and durable enough for constant use. Please enjoy using and giving Terrafirma.”

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Terrafirma products are made entirely by hand and kiln-fired to extremely high temperatures, giving each piece its own personality and great durability. Slight variations in color, texture and surface blushing are the natural and desired result of the hand building and high-firing process and assure each piece of its individuality.


Each collectible, copyrighted design is signed and dated. All Terrafirma is food safe and dishwasher safe. Care for your Terrafirma pieces as you would any fine china. When using your accessories in the oven, please start from room temperature in a cold oven. The microwave may be used for warming—no more than two minutes.