The Rookwood Pottery Company (American, Estab. 1880)

The Rookwood Pottery Company (American, Estab. 1880);Rookwood Pottery Company

Place: Cincinnati

Born: 1880

Death: 1967

Biography:

The Rookwood Pottery Company, established in 1880 in Cincinnati, Ohio, was one of the most prominent art pottery studios in the country, known for its high-quality ceramics and innovative glazes. The company was founded by Maria Longworth Nichols Storer, who was inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement in England.

History and Development

Rookwood Pottery quickly gained a reputation for its beautiful and unique pieces, which were often decorated with floral and nature-inspired motifs. The company's artists used a variety of techniques, including hand-painting, lithography, and glazing, to create their distinctive designs. Rookwood Pottery remained in operation until 1967, and its works are highly sought after by collectors today. Some notable examples of Rookwood Pottery's work can be found at the Cincinnati Art Museum, including a stunning Vase from 1893. This piece exemplifies the company's commitment to artistic excellence and innovative glazing techniques. Other notable works by Rookwood Pottery can be found at The Rookwood Pottery Company (American, Estab. 1880): Vase and The Rookwood Pottery Company (American, Estab. 1880): Vase.

Techniques and Influences

Rookwood Pottery's work was influenced by various techniques and styles, including China painting, which is defined as the decoration of glazed porcelain objects, such as plates, bowls, vases or statues. This technique can be found on Wikipedia. The company's use of underglaze and overglaze decoration, as well as its experimentation with different glazing techniques, contributed to its unique and distinctive style. Some notable artists who worked for Rookwood Pottery include Shirayamadani Kitarō, a Japanese ceramics painter who worked for the company from 1887 until 1948. His work can be found at Shirayamadani Kitarō.

Legacy and Collections

Today, Rookwood Pottery's works can be found in various museums and collections, including the Taft Museum of Art and the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute. The company's legacy continues to inspire artists and collectors alike, with its innovative glazing techniques and beautiful designs remaining highly sought after. Some notable examples of Rookwood Pottery's work can be found in the following collections:

Rookwood Pottery's contribution to the world of ceramics is undeniable, and its legacy continues to inspire artists and collectors today. With its innovative glazing techniques and beautiful designs, Rookwood Pottery remains one of the most important and influential pottery companies in American history.