Avenue Caffin

Hidden within the tapestry of Bordeaux’s rich history lies Avenue Caffin, a street whose name echoes a forgotten legacy. Before Avenue Caffin became a quiet residential street, it held the heart of Bordeaux’s artistic and industrial past. From 1919 to 1947, number 39 Avenue Caffin housed the Céramique d’Art de Bordeaux (CAB). This wasn’t just another pottery factory. It was a vibrant hub where artistry and industry intertwined. The CAB arose from the ashes of the former Caffin pottery and tile factory, which operated from 1897 to 1900. Jean Mérillon, grandson of Boyer, a prominent 18th-century Bordeaux ceramist, founded the CAB. Mérillon’s vision was to create a space where artistic expression could flourish. He partnered with prominent figures in Bordeaux society, including Georges Boubès, Alfred Schffler, and Henry Frugès. Together they breathed life into the CAB, collaborating with renowned artists like Primavera, who had established the first art workshop at Le Printemps department store in Paris. Avenue Caffin pulsed with creative energy, attracting artists and designers eager to push the boundaries of ceramic art. Imagine kilns firing day and night, the air thick with the scent of clay and glaze. Skilled artisans meticulously molded and shaped each piece, their hands transforming raw materials into objects of beauty. The CAB became a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring legacy of craftsmanship. The street’s namesake, Victor Caffin, served as mayor of Caudéran, the town that would later be absorbed into Bordeaux. His leadership played a vital role in shaping the region, paving the way for Avenue Caffin’s transformation. Though the pottery is gone, the spirit of innovation and creativity lingers on Avenue Caffin. As you stroll along this unassuming street, remember the vibrant history it holds, a testament to Bordeaux’s artistic and industrial heritage.