Porzellanmanufaktur Allach: The Nazi-Era Luxury Porcelain Manufacturer
Allach Porcelain was a German manufacturer of high-quality porcelain, established in 1935 under the direct patronage of Heinrich Himmler and the SS. It became one of the most infamous porcelain makers of the Nazi era, producing finely crafted figurines, tableware, and decorative pieces that reflected the ideology and aesthetic preferences of the Third Reich.
Origins and Purpose
Founded in Allach, near Munich, the Allach Porcelain Manufactory was later moved to Dachau concentration camp, where prisoners were forced to produce porcelain under harsh conditions. Unlike traditional German porcelain brands such as Meissen, Allach served a political purpose—creating propaganda-laden art that glorified Aryan ideals and SS symbolism.
Designs and Symbolism
Allach’s porcelain works included:
- SS-inspired sculptures: Figurines of soldiers, Nordic warriors, and idealized Aryan figures.
- Germanic and folkloric themes: Statues of animals, peasant figures, and mythological characters.
- SS Insignia and Military Designs: Many pieces bore SS logos or were designed as gifts for high-ranking Nazi officials.
Production and Labor
The factory’s relocation to Dachau concentration camp in 1940 meant that forced laborers, including prisoners, were used in the production of these luxury items. While the company produced elegant works, its connection to Nazi oppression remains a dark stain on its legacy.
End of Allach Porcelain
With the fall of Nazi Germany in 1945, Allach Porcelain ceased production. The factory was abandoned, and its molds were destroyed or confiscated by Allied forces. Today, Allach pieces are rare and controversial, with collectors and historians debating their ethical implications.
Legacy and Controversy
Allach porcelain remains a contentious subject. While some admire its craftsmanship, its association with Nazi Germany and SS exploitation makes it a dark relic of history. Museums and collectors handle Allach artifacts with care, ensuring that they are preserved as historical evidence rather than glorified memorabilia.
Conclusion
Allach Porcelain represents the complex intersection of art, propaganda, and war crimes. Though its pieces may hold artistic value, they are also stark reminders of the Nazi regime’s use of culture as a tool of ideology and oppression.
A Selection of Original items from Porzellan Manufaktur Allach presented by NS-Kunst – NB. Use the site seach function to find more)
