Pottery History

  • How to Identify Majolica Pottery and Recognize Fakes

    How to Identify Majolica Pottery and Recognize Fakes

    The term ‘majolica’ has been used to refer to two different kinds of pottery.  One type is tin-glazed pottery and its production is said to date back to the 8th century.   The other is colorful lead glaze pottery which emerged in Victorian England.  In spite of this difference, there are ways to identify majolica…

  • Maiolica, Majolica, and Faience – What’s the Difference?

    Maiolica, Majolica, and Faience – What’s the Difference?

    The terms maiolica and majolica are often used to refer to the same thing.  And the word faience is sometimes used as an umbrella term for majolica and maiolica!  So, is there any difference between maiolica, majolica, and faience?  Maiolica, majolica, and faience are all words that are used to refer to a broad category…

  • A Guide to Majolica Pottery – Past and Present

    A Guide to Majolica Pottery – Past and Present

    Majolica pottery means different things to different people.  In this guide, we look at some of the different uses of the name Majolica, its history, who made it, and how it was made. What is Majolica Pottery? The name ‘majolica’ is used to refer to two different types of pottery that are made in different…

  • Puzzle Jugs – A Curious Ceramic Headscratcher

    Puzzle Jugs – A Curious Ceramic Headscratcher

    Puzzle jugs are clever drinking vessels that have been made to confuse and entertain drinkers and party guests for centuries.  These charming curiosities have an interesting history and still hold a fascination today. In this article, we will look at the following: What are Puzzle Jugs? Puzzle jugs are specially designed vessels that were designed…

  • How Much is Rookwood Pottery Worth?  6 Deciding Factors

    How Much is Rookwood Pottery Worth? 6 Deciding Factors

    Rookwood pottery is one of the most iconic brands of the American Art pottery movement.  It is loved by many, but how much is Rookwood Pottery worth?  Perhaps you want to buy some Rookwood, or maybe you have some pieces that you want to sell.  Either way, it’s essential to have an idea of the…

  • Rookwood Pottery Marks – How to Identify Rookwood

    Rookwood Pottery Marks – How to Identify Rookwood

    One way to identify a piece of pottery is the maker’s marks which are usually on the base.  Rookwood Pottery marks have changed quite a bit over the years.  And it’s helpful if you want to get hold of some Rookwood pieces to know what to look out for.  Here is the information you need…

  • How is Rookwood Pottery Made?  Art, Craft, and Science

    How is Rookwood Pottery Made? Art, Craft, and Science

    Rookwood Pottery is a celebrated part of the American Art Pottery movement.  It was founded in 1880, and over the years the techniques used to make Rookwood have evolved.  But how is Rookwood pottery made?  And how have these techniques changed with time? During its history, Rookwood Pottery has been owned and run by a…

  • The History of Rookwood Pottery – An Extraordinary Tale

    The History of Rookwood Pottery – An Extraordinary Tale

    Rookwood pottery is one of the most famous and well-respected brands of American pottery.  The history of Rookwood pottery is a captivating and dramatic story.  With Rookwood pottery still being produced today, the fascinating story continues to unfold.  Here are some of the highs and lows of Rookwood since its inception. The History of Rookwood…

  • Why is Pottery Important? 7 Ways It Has Changed the World

    Why is Pottery Important? 7 Ways It Has Changed the World

    At the moment, pottery is enjoying a surge in popularity, with many people embracing it as a creative outlet.  This can sometimes eclipse the vast history of pottery and its incredible influence over thousands of years.  But how has the humble pot changed the course of history over the years and across the globe?  And…

  • How Much is Delft Pottery Worth? 8 Things to Consider

    How Much is Delft Pottery Worth? 8 Things to Consider

    Delft pottery has a rich history and it is certainly sought-after among collectors. But exactly how much is delft pottery worth? The value of delft pottery depends on a number of factors and these affect the price considerably.  Some pieces will sell for a few hundred dollars and others will fetch a price in the…

  • Delft Pottery Marks and How to Spot Them

    Delft Pottery Marks and How to Spot Them

    Pottery marks can be a good way of helping us to figure out where and when a piece of pottery was made, and who made it.  Delft pottery marks are no exception and can be useful in enabling us to establish the history and value of a piece of Delftware. The Delft pottery factories started…

  • 11 Ways to Identify Delft Pottery | Spotting Real Delftware

    11 Ways to Identify Delft Pottery | Spotting Real Delftware

    If you want to identify Delft pottery, it is helpful to have a checklist of features to look out for.  One important way to identify Delft pottery is to look at the marks on the underside of the piece.  However, not all Delftware bears a mark, and even when it does, not all of these…