Of the genuine dynasty of potters initiated at Arquian around 1750 with Pierre LION, Eugene LION is the main representative.
In 1888, the sculptor Jean CARRIES arrives in Puisaye. He needs advice and naturally finds them at the LIONs.
Armand LION, Eugene's father is then master in the art of pottery; he is 50. Eugene is 21 and knows his trade and thoroughly masters the techniques.
While Armand is trying to achieve some "céramiques d'art", it is Eugene who benefits from the teaching of what is then known as the School of CARRIES.
Having a strong personality he puts his personal touch by combining oriental inspiration and local tradition, by venturing strong contrasts or bold parallels without bothering with philosophical problems.
That doesn't prevent him, on occasions, to collaborate with other artists committed to this movement : William LEE, Paul JEANNEREY or Father PACTON who also benefit from his knowledge.
In 1920 he launches out into the colour red and copper, an experiment that gives birth to a remarkable purplish red which makes his reputation and wins him an award at the Concours LEPINE of 1933.
Also a master at throwing, he achieves a few original and personal shapes.
Eugene LION's ceramics are a perfect combination of tradition and art, rural and urban world, obligations and freedom.
He dedicated himself totally to this task which makes his work all the more interesting
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