Hidden in plain sight on rue de la Pierre-Lev\u00e9e stands the Ancienne fa\u00efencerie Loebnitz. This unassuming building holds a vibrant history of artistry and industry. The Ancienne fa\u00efencerie Loebnitz began its life in 1884. It was designed by the renowned architect Paul S\u00e9dille, the same mind behind the iconic Printemps department store. The Loebnitz family, Jules Paul and his father, had taken over a failing earthenware factory in 1857. They transformed it into a thriving business. Their success culminated in a gold medal at the 1878 Universal Exposition.
The Ancienne fa\u00efencerie Loebnitz wasn’t just a factory. It was a home. S\u00e9dille designed the building with both workshops and living quarters for the workers. This created a tight-knit community centered around the art of ceramics. The building’s facade showcases the Loebnitz family’s pride in their craft. Three ceramic panels adorn the front. These panels, depicting architecture, painting, and sculpture, were originally part of the gateway to the Fine Arts Pavilion at the 1878 Universal Exposition. Jules Paul Loebnitz cleverly salvaged these beautiful pieces. He added a fourth panel representing ceramics itself, creating a striking advertisement for his own factory. These panels, designed by \u00c9mile L\u00e9vy and his student Lazar Meyer, serve as a lasting testament to the artistic spirit of the era.
The Ancienne fa\u00efencerie Loebnitz continued to operate until 1935. Even today, remnants of its productive past remain hidden beneath the surface. The original kilns still exist in the basement. The metallic framework of the workshop and the facade, including the ceramic panels, are now recognized as historical monuments. This designation, granted in 2002, ensures that this piece of Parisian history will be preserved for generations to come. So next time you find yourself in the 11th arrondissement, take a detour to rue de la Pierre-Lev\u00e9e. Look closely at the Ancienne fa\u00efencerie Loebnitz. You’ll be looking at more than just a building. You’ll be witnessing a testament to the enduring power of art, industry, and a family’s dedication to their craft.