Our excursions across Crete Island have led us to many fascinating landscapes, wonders of nature, and rare craftsmanship traditions inextricably linked to Keftiu and pre-history. On a trip to the traditional village of Margarites in Rethymno Prefecture, we connected with two exceptional ceramic artists at Keramion, a famous shop in the village center. Their story and their exquisite work using traditional pottery-making techniques is a modern-day window into what made the Keftiu unique and powerful.
When you enter Keramion, the pottery studio of Giorgis and Mariniki Dalamvelas, the brilliance of ancient Keftiu craftsmanship immediately grabs you, altering your perception and tweaking your expectations. The village, one of Crete’s most celebrated hubs of traditional pottery, is part of a community that seeks to not simply preserve rich traditions. Keramion is about expanding and creating new versions of the artifacts prized by the ancients thousands of years ago. Giorgis and Mariniki are not in the business of copying Keftiu ceramic art as much as they are into creating new versions as if the ancients had never ceased their practices.
The Artistic Legacy of Keramion
As I suggested, a visit to Keramion evokes the enduring brilliance of ancient craftsmanship. This shop, and a few others in the tiny town, cling to a heritage of ceramic artistry dating back to Keftiu (Minoan) times. Lining the walls and every nook and cranny of the shop are textures, shapes, and colours that leave awe-inspiring. The meticulous care poured into every piece is immediately apparent.
Although the shop exudes a warm, glowing charm, the true marvel lies in the pottery adorning its shelves. The light refracting off the vessels, vases, and traditional pots reflect a deep connection to the past. The harmony of ancient techniques and contemporary utility makes the ceramics feel timeless. Whether for collectors or enthusiasts, these creations represent more than functional objects—they embody artistic excellence.
Keftiu’s Influence on Modern Ceramics
Margarites is an ideal setting for artisans dedicated to traditional ceramic-making methods. Located in the low hills overlooking Rethymno and the Cretan Sea beyond, the village shines with Cretan urban charm. This place is literally home to a ceramic making epoch older than written history.
Giorgis and Mariniki’s work showcases the seamless preservation of Keftiu (Minoan) techniques over millennia. After firing pieces for 12 hours, the process includes reducing oxygen levels to achieve unique hues, followed by submersion in water to strengthen the pottery. The final stage involves precise hand polishing and decoration, mirroring methods practised 5,000 years ago.
The outcome is pottery that connects customers and visitors with ancient Crete, in within a realm of extended and modern sensibility. Each piece feels personal, as though bridging the gap between the past and present. This marriage of tradition and innovation continues to captivate visitors and collectors alike. These works are not copies, though the artisans have been asked to recreated originals in the various museums, they are truly NEW Keftiu artworks.
Reflecting on Excellence
During a recent expedition, the artists were approached with a special commission—crafting a vessel tied to the Cretan terroir and Keftiu ceramics traditions. This piece was designed for olive oil and wine connoisseurs, grounded in historical techniques but reimagined for modern use. Equipped with examples provided by Dr. Kostis Christakis, a leading Minoan scholar and curator of Knossos, the artists rose to the challenge.
While initial plans led to other pottery villages like Thrapsano, it became evident that Keramion’s unique approach would best honor the vision. Giorgis’s and Mariniki’s ability to channel centuries-old Keftiu ceramics ensures their creations are as meaningful as they are beautiful.
Holding a piece from Keramion elicits a shared sense of history and artistry. Each vessel feels unique yet universal, resonating with those who appreciate the nuance of handmade ceramics. The experience of touching it—whether its wood-like texture, intricate designs, or bold shapes—underscores the mastery behind these creations.
This enduring craftsmanship speaks to a broader ideal. The continuation of such practices offers a glimpse of what Minoan culture might have been had history unfolded differently. Thanks to the dedication of artisans like Giorgis and Mariniki, the essence of this ancient civilization endures in tangible form.
