What Is Rookwood Pottery: A Historical Icon’s Legacy

What Is Rookwood Pottery

Rookwood Pottery is an American ceramics company that was founded in 1880.

It is known for its decorative American art pottery and was one of the first large manufacturing enterprises in the US to be founded and owned by a woman.

Rookwood Pottery closed in 1967 but was revived in 2004.

It was initially located in Cincinnati, Ohio, and was inspired by Japanese and French ceramics.

The company employed women and was praised for its management.

Rookwood Pottery developed various glazes, including the “Standard Glaze,” and introduced a matte glaze called “Vellum” in 1904.

It also produced architectural pottery, filing for bankruptcy during the Great Depression.

Rookwood Pottery was purchased by the Herschede Clock Company in 1959 and production was moved to Starkville, Mississippi.

It was later revived in 1982 and moved back to Cincinnati in 2004.

Presently, Rookwood Pottery is involved in restoration projects and has been featured on Martha Stewart Living Blog and How It’s Made.

History And Revival Of Rookwood Pottery

Rookwood Pottery, an esteemed American ceramics company, was founded in 1880 by Maria Longworth Nichols Storer in Cincinnati, Ohio. Storer, an entrepreneurial visionary and art patron, aimed to create an distinctive American art pottery that rivaled the finest European works, drawing inspiration from Japanese and French ceramics.

Under Storer’s guidance, Rookwood Pottery thrived and gained recognition for its decorative pieces. Notably, the company constructed its second building in 1891-1892, allowing for expansion and further solidifying its position as a leading ceramics manufacturer.

Rookwood Pottery became known for pioneering various techniques and styles, beginning with relief-worked colored clay and later developing the renowned “Standard Glaze”. Additionally, the company embraced the Japonism trend and introduced new glazes like “Iris,” “Sea Green,” and “Aerial Blue”. In 1904, they unveiled the innovative “Vellum” matte glaze, showcasing their commitment to quality and innovation.

Unfortunately, the Great Depression took its toll on Rookwood Pottery, forcing the company to file for bankruptcy in 1941. However, hope emerged when the Herschede Clock Company purchased Rookwood Pottery in 1959. The clock company relocated production to Starkville, Mississippi, in an effort to revitalize the brand. It wasn’t until 1982, when Arthur Townley revived Rookwood Pottery, that the company truly experienced a renaissance.

• Rookwood Pottery was founded in 1880 by Maria Longworth Nichols Storer
• The company constructed its second building in 1891-1892
• Rookwood Pottery developed the renowned “Standard Glaze” and embraced Japonism
• They introduced new glazes like “Iris,” “Sea Green,” and “Aerial Blue”
• In 1904, they unveiled the innovative “Vellum” matte glaze
• The company filed for bankruptcy in 1941 due to the Great Depression
• Rookwood Pottery was revived by Arthur Townley in 1982
• The Herschede Clock Company purchased Rookwood Pottery in 1959 and relocated production to Starkville, Mississippi

Signature Glazes And Decorative Styles

Rookwood Pottery is celebrated for its distinctive glazes and decorative styles, which were instrumental in the company’s enduring success. Right from its inception, Rookwood Pottery showcased a commitment to innovation and artistic expression, as seen in its wide range of glazes.

One of Rookwood Pottery’s most iconic glazes is the “Standard Glaze,” which was developed in the late 1880s. This glaze involved multiple firings and resulted in a lustrous, glossy surface with warm earth tones. The “Standard Glaze” swiftly became a hallmark of Rookwood Pottery, signifying its unwavering dedication to impeccable craftsmanship.

In addition to the “Standard Glaze,” Rookwood Pottery introduced a myriad of other captivating glazes. The company’s exploration of the Japonism trend led to the creation of remarkable glazes like “Iris,” a vibrant purple, and “Sea Green,” an enchanting oceanic shade. Rookwood Pottery also offered the mesmerizing “Aerial Blue,” evoking the ethereal beauty of the sky.

Moreover, alongside its exceptional glazes, Rookwood Pottery developed various decorative styles. The intricate relief work on colored clay exemplified the company’s early designs. As time progressed, Rookwood Pottery embraced the Arts and Crafts movement, incorporating motifs inspired by nature, such as flowers, leaves, and animals, into their designs. Each piece of Rookwood Pottery showcased meticulous craftsmanship, successfully fusing artistry with functionality.

Impact Of Great Depression On Rookwood Pottery

The Great Depression exerted a strong impact on Rookwood Pottery, as it did on many businesses of that time. The economic downturn caused a decline in the demand for luxury goods, including art pottery. Consequently, Rookwood Pottery faced significant challenges and experienced a decrease in sales.

In 1941, the company was forced to declare bankruptcy, reflecting the difficult circumstances faced by numerous enterprises during this period. This event marked the end of an era for Rookwood Pottery and left a noticeable void in the American art pottery industry.

Despite these setbacks, Rookwood Pottery’s legacy persisted. Its innovative glazes and artistic designs continued to influence others in the industry, and collectors continued to value and appreciate the brand’s craftsmanship. The subsequent revival of Rookwood Pottery in the following years showcased that the company’s spirit was far from extinguished.

• Key points:
  • The Great Depression caused a decline in demand for luxury items, impacting Rookwood Pottery.
  • Rookwood Pottery filed for bankruptcy in 1941, reflecting the challenges faced by many other businesses.
  • The closure marked the end of an era and left a void in the American art pottery industry.
  • Rookwood Pottery’s legacy endured through its innovative glazes and artistic designs.
  • Collectors continued to appreciate the craftsmanship of Rookwood Pottery.
  • The eventual revival of Rookwood Pottery demonstrated the company’s resilience.

Moving Locations And Changes In Ownership

Rookwood Pottery has a rich history marked by several relocations and changes in ownership. Each phase in the company’s journey has had a significant impact. After filing for bankruptcy in 1941, Rookwood Pottery faced an uncertain future until it was acquired by the Herschede Clock Company in 1959. The clock company aimed to revive the renowned pottery manufacturer and decided to relocate production to Starkville, Mississippi.

However, despite the relocation, Rookwood Pottery struggled to regain its previous level of success. It wasn’t until 1982 that a glimmer of hope emerged with Arthur Townley’s decision to revive the company. Townley’s dedication to preserving Rookwood Pottery’s legacy and commitment to excellence laid the foundation for the brand’s eventual restoration.

In 2004, Rookwood Pottery made a triumphant homecoming back to its Cincinnati roots. This move presented an opportunity to reconnect with its heritage and further emphasize its status as an iconic American pottery brand.

Since then, Rookwood Pottery has undergone various changes in ownership. In 2006, Martin and Marilyn Wade acquired all remaining assets from Arthur Townley, securing sole ownership. The Wades’ passion and commitment to preserving the Rookwood Pottery legacy have enabled the company to thrive and ensure its continued success.

Highlights:

• Rookwood Pottery was acquired by the Herschede Clock Company in 1959.
• Arthur Townley’s decision to revive the company in 1982 laid the foundation for its restoration.
• In 2004, Rookwood Pottery returned to Cincinnati, emphasizing its heritage and iconic status.
• Martin and Marilyn Wade secured sole ownership in 2006, contributing to the company’s success.

Recognition And Collaborations In The Modern Era

Rookwood Pottery is a highly acclaimed and celebrated contributor to the world of ceramics. Renowned for its commitment to craftsmanship and artistic expression, the company has garnered widespread acclaim and engaged in numerous collaborations and restoration projects.

One notable collaboration took place in 2017, when Rookwood Pottery partnered with the Cincinnati Zoo to create commemorative pieces. This collaboration beautifully showcased the harmonious blend of art and nature, highlighting Rookwood Pottery’s ability to embrace contemporary themes while staying true to its heritage.

Rookwood Pottery’s commitment to excellence and quality has not gone unnoticed, as the company has been featured on esteemed platforms such as the Martha Stewart Living Blog and the popular television show “How It’s Made.” Through these appearances, a wider audience has had the opportunity to appreciate the intricacies of the pottery-making process and the exceptional artistry of Rookwood Pottery.

In addition to its collaborations and accolades, Rookwood Pottery maintains a dedicated gallery at the Cincinnati Art Museum. This gallery serves as a testament to the profound artistic contributions of the company within the larger cultural context, underscoring its enduring legacy and continued influence on the art world.

What sets Rookwood Pottery apart is not only its artistic prowess but also its historical significance. As the first large manufacturing enterprise in the United States to be founded and owned by a woman, Rookwood Pottery holds a unique place in history. Its high-quality art pottery and architectural tile continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, solidifying its reputation as a historical icon in the field of ceramics.

• Notable collaborations with the Cincinnati Zoo in 2017, showcasing the synergy between art and nature
• Featured on the Martha Stewart Living Blog and the TV show “How It’s Made,” exposing a wider audience to the pottery-making process
• Dedicated gallery at the Cincinnati Art Museum, symbolizing Rookwood Pottery’s profound artistic contributions within the larger cultural context

Check this out:

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Rookwood Pottery known for?

Rookwood Pottery was renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative glazing techniques. The company’s dedication to producing exquisite decorative pieces and its pioneering spirit in experimenting with new glazing methods set it apart in the world of Art Pottery. From its humble beginnings, Rookwood rapidly gained worldwide acclaim, eventually becoming the largest Art Pottery in the United States. Today, Rookwood Pottery remains a beacon of artisanal excellence, continuing its legacy as a leading producer of exquisite pottery.

What is Rookwood Pottery made of?

Rookwood Pottery is made from a unique blend of minerals sourced directly from the earth. The process begins with the creation of plaster molds, which are used to individually cast ceramic pieces by hand. A liquid clay, known as slip, is carefully poured into these molds. The plaster then extracts the moisture from the slip, causing it to solidify into a durable, ceramic material. This meticulous process ensures that Rookwood Pottery is crafted with the finest quality and attention to detail.

What is the history of Rookwood Pottery?

Rookwood Pottery, established by Maria Longworth Nichols in 1880, holds an esteemed position as one of America’s most influential and enduring art potteries of all time. With a remarkable legacy that spanned beyond World War II, Rookwood Pottery’s history is a testament to its exceptional craftsmanship and artistic excellence. Maria’s pioneering spirit and passion for ceramics propelled Rookwood Pottery to create exquisite and distinctive pieces that captured the hearts of collectors and art enthusiasts alike. From its humble beginnings to its prolonged success, Rookwood Pottery stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of American ceramic art.

How do you identify Rookwood Pottery?

Rookwood Pottery can be easily identified by its distinctive mark, which consists of a reversed ‘R’ connected to the letter ‘P’. This iconic mark is a telltale sign of authentic Rookwood pieces. Additionally, the presence of flame marks that extend from the ‘RP’ letters helps in identifying the year of production for each individual piece. These flame marks provide a fascinating way to date and authenticate Rookwood Pottery, adding an element of intrigue and history to each collector’s find.