The Global Table Summer Series - "Cheers" to the USA.

Yesterday we celebrated the Fourth of July, the birthday of the United States, the holiday during which the nation celebrates it’s heritage with barbecues, baseball games, fireworks and parties. In the spirit of this week’s global table summer series, a celebration of the culture and environment in which wonderful tableware is created all over the world, I celebrate my American pride by spotlighting Heath Ceramics.

Heath Ceramics is one of the few remaining mid-century American potteries still in existence today. They have been making tableware and tile for over a half-century and still make every product on premises, often utilizing the methods and techniques developed by Edith Heath throughout her career.

(l to r: small teapot, $66.25; large teapot, $157.50)

In 2003, husband and wife team, Robin Petravic and Catherine Bailey purchased Heath Ceramics. Their shared mission was to revitalize the brand, placing strong emphasis on design, while preserving Edith Heath’s handcrafted techniques and classic designs – all while continuing to manufacture Heath products in Sausalito, California, USA. Old molds have been revived and new glazes have been introduced but craftsmanship is still responsible for the product’s unique quality and aesthetic.


Coupe – Edith Heath launched her dinnerware line with the classic Coupe pattern in 1948 and it has been in production ever since. (above: dinner plate, $31.50; salad plate, $25.75; dessert bowl, $22.00)


Rim – Our classic Rim design was developed in 1960 for the growing Heath restaurant trade and incorporates a wide rim for easy handling. (above: dinner plate, $34.75; salad plate, $ 28.50; dessert bowl, $22.00)

Plaza – The plaza pattern is Edith Heath’s more recent contribution to our line. Its contemporary square shapes remain rooted in the tradition she established for simple, durable and versatile modern-era design.


The Chez Panisse Line was designed for use in Alice Waters’ famed restaurant Chez Panisse – refined, with organic elegance. (above: main plate, $42.00; salad plate, $34.00; side bowl, $35 .00; cafe bowl, $35.00) (below l to r): limited summer 2007 edition, bowls, $60.oo, $125.oo; ice tea set, $165.00)

A common modern vision has drawn generations of craftspeople to the Heath family, each one devoted to the heritage of classic design and quality production. The craft and character of the handmade is what I love. Start assembling a collection now, and you'll be able to show your pride not only on the Fourth of July but everyday of the year! Durable, honest, and handsome, Heath ceramics are design icons. Cheers to the USA!