OUR ROOTS
Nestled on the north shore of Long Island. Sunken Orchard Ceramics takes its name from the former estate of Charles and Helena Woolworth McCann in Oyster Bay, NY. Founded by potter Raffaela Pierro Vergata, we specialize in handmade ceramic stoneware bowls, plates, and other home accessories. What sets us apart is Raffaela's creative use of heirloom lace impressed into the clay in unique ways. Read more below about our process, the bio of our founder, the story of our lace, and the history of the Sunken Orchard name and the former estate that our studio now sits on!
Our Kiln “Marie” in Oyster Bay Cove, NY
A Peek Inside the Kiln after a final firing
Our Process
Currently all of our items are hand built (not on a wheel) by cutting out different patterns within the clay and then assembling the pieces together when wet to create the product. Some of the items have impressions using our laces which create a unique pattern and character to the items. Once the piece air drys to what is called “greenware” the item can go into our kiln “Marie”, named after our founder Raffaela’s late aunt who helped inspire her love for craft and art. At this phase the stoneware is in its “bisque” state and the impressions can now be accentuated through different specialty treatments, washes, and glazes. One more time through Marie at over 2000 degrees Fahrenheit and then the piece is finally ready for you to take home!
Meet Founder Raffaela Pierro Vergata
The Story of Our Lace
History of Sunken Orchard Estate