Lorraine, in the northeast of France near the German border, is the region where I grew up. It holds a special place in my heart. In the attic of my family home, I once found old glass bottles that had been used by my grandparents' generation to preserve fruits and vegetables. These bottles are quite common in Lorraine households, but I was particularly drawn to their elegant shape, the inscription "La Lorraine," and the thistle—the emblem of the region.

This discovery became the starting point for my inspiration. I first focused on the shape of these bottles, but my research soon led me further back in time, to the ancient pharmacy jars that were beautifully decorated with intricate maiolica designs. Maiolica is a traditional ceramic technique that involves coating earthenware with a white, opaque tin glaze, then painting vibrant designs over the surface before firing. This method, developed in the Renaissance period, results in richly colored, glossy ceramics that are both decorative and functional.