How to Identify Edgefield Pottery
To identify Edgefield pottery, there are several key characteristics to look out for.
First, Edgefield pottery refers to alkaline-glazed stoneware that was produced in Edgefield District in the 1810s.
It incorporated cultural influences from England, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
The distinctive glaze and use of the groundhog kiln were typical of Far East pottery techniques.
Edgefield pottery was primarily produced by potters from English, Irish, and German backgrounds, with labor-intensive tasks performed by African American slaves.
Figural vessels and “face jugs” were predominantly made by African Americans between 1840 and 1880.
Major factories that produced Edgefield pottery include Pottersville Stoneware Manufactory, John Landrum Pottery, Colin Rhodes Factory, Lewis Miles Factory, and Phoenix Factory.
Edgefield pottery tradition spread to other states like Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas.
The production of Edgefield pottery peaked in the 1850s, with up to five factories producing upwards of fifty thousand gallons annually.
Today, Edgefield pottery remains highly sought after by museums and private collectors, with individual pieces reaching prices in the tens of thousands of dollars.
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Did You Know?
1. Edgefield pottery is known for its distinctive alkaline glaze, which gives the pieces a greenish-brown color. This glaze was made from a mixture of ash, clay, and other local materials.
2. One way to identify genuine Edgefield pottery is by looking for the mark of the potter. Many potters would leave their initials or a distinctive symbol on the bottom of the piece, indicating their work.
3. Edgefield pottery often features decorative elements such as intricate cobalt blue designs. These designs are typically created using a technique known as slip trailing, where a mixture of clay and water, called slip, is applied to the piece using a small nozzle.
4. The use of face jugs is a unique characteristic of Edgefield pottery. Face jugs were primarily made for utilitarian purposes but gained popularity due to their expressive and often humorous facial features. Today, these face jugs are highly collectible.
5. Edgefield pottery has a rich history rooted in African American traditions. Many enslaved African Americans were skilled potters and played a significant role in the development of Edgefield pottery during the 19th century. Their contributions have contributed to the unique style and craftsmanship that distinguishes Edgefield pottery from other types of ceramics.
Introduction To Edgefield Pottery: History And Origins
Edgefield pottery is a significant part of American history, known for its unique alkaline-glazed stoneware that was produced in the Edgefield District in the early 19th century. This pottery was influenced by cultural traditions from England, Europe, Asia, and Africa, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of the potters. Notably, African American slaves played a crucial role in the labor-intensive production process.
The Landrum family, who were pioneers in pottery production, established the first Edgefield pottery in Pottersville in 1817. With increasing demand, more factories emerged in the district, resulting in a peak in production in the 1850s. At that time, up to five factories were producing over fifty thousand gallons of pottery each year. Edgefield pottery gained popularity beyond the district and was distributed throughout the state via wagon and railway.
These vessels were known for their impressive size and capacity, often advertised at ten cents per gallon for containers holding up to twenty gallons.
- Distinctive form of alkaline-glazed stoneware produced in Edgefield District
- Combined cultural traditions from England, Europe, Asia, and Africa
- Reflects diverse backgrounds of English, Irish, and German potters
- African American slaves played a significant role in production
- Landrum family established first Edgefield pottery in 1817
- Peak in production during the 1850s
- Over fifty thousand gallons of pottery produced annually
- Edgefield pottery sold statewide via wagon and railway
- Vessels known for remarkable size and capacity
- Advertised at ten cents per gallon for containers holding up to twenty gallons
“Edgefield pottery holds a special place in American history.”
Cultural Influences In Edgefield Pottery
The uniqueness of Edgefield pottery lies in its ability to blend cultural influences from various parts of the world. Far East pottery techniques influenced the distinctive glaze and utilization of the groundhog kiln that were typical of the Edgefield tradition. This influence is notable considering the cultural exchange that connected the Americas and the Far East through trade routes during this time. The infusion of these influences created an aesthetic that celebrated diversity and set Edgefield pottery apart from other styles of American stoneware.
Potters And Workers In Edgefield Pottery Production
The production of Edgefield pottery involved a collaboration between skilled potters and laborers. The potters, who hailed from English, Irish, and German ancestry, utilized techniques passed down from their ancestors. Meanwhile, the enslaved African American population in the region played a crucial role in performing labor-intensive tasks and worked alongside the potters in various capacities. This collaboration created a strong bond between different cultural groups, which significantly contributed to the diverse cultural tapestry that characterizes the production of Edgefield pottery.
Unique Features Of Edgefield Pottery: Glazes And Kilns
The glazes used in Edgefield pottery were characterized by an alkaline formula, resulting in a glossy brown or gray finish. This distinctive glaze was achieved by incorporating local materials, such as alkaline, sand, or ash, and a controlled firing process. The utilization of the groundhog kiln, a traditional kiln design originating from the Far East, played a crucial role in the production of Edgefield pottery. The specific firing methods of the groundhog kiln allowed for the unique glaze effects that are synonymous with this style of pottery.
Key Players In Edgefield Pottery Manufacturing
Several major factories contributed to the manufacturing of Edgefield pottery. Among them were the Pottersville Stoneware Manufactory, John Landrum Pottery, Colin Rhodes Factory, Lewis Miles Factory, and Phoenix Factory. These factories produced a significant amount of pottery, which included both utilitarian and decorative items.
Additionally, African American potters, especially during the period between 1840 and 1880, played a vital role in the creation of figural vessels and “face jugs”. Their skills and artistry added a distinct aspect to Edgefield pottery.
- Pottersville Stoneware Manufactory
- John Landrum Pottery
- Colin Rhodes Factory
- Lewis Miles Factory
- Phoenix Factory
Legacy And Significance Of Edgefield Pottery
Edgefield pottery had a far-reaching impact, spreading beyond the region of Edgefield and influencing other states, such as Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. However, as the 19th century came to a close, the popularity of Edgefield pottery declined due to the rise of inexpensive glass production and the collapse of the plantation system. Nevertheless, Edgefield pottery remains highly sought after by collectors and museums. Its rarity and historical significance have made individual pieces reach prices in the tens of thousands of dollars.
Scholarly attention on Edgefield pottery is considerable, with numerous books addressing the topic. Noteworthy publications include “Great and Noble Jar: Traditional Stoneware of South Carolina” by Cinda K. Baldwin (1993), “Making Faces: Southern Face Vessels from 1840-1990” by Jill Beute Koverman (2001), and “I Made This Jar…: The Life and Works of the Enslaved African-American Potter, Dave” edited by Jill Beute Koverman (1998). These books, published by the University of Georgia Press and the University of South Carolina’s McKissick Museum, explore the historical, cultural, and artistic significance of Edgefield pottery, further solidifying its enduring legacy in American ceramics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the marks on Edgefield pottery?
The marks on Edgefield pottery were not merely decorative, but held significant meaning. One notable mark found on the pottery was an X, which symbolized the resilience and strength of the enslaved African American potters. It represented their interconnectedness and unwavering spirit, despite the hardships they faced. Additionally, slashes were often incorporated into the pottery as a way for the potters to express their individuality and personal style. These unique marks served not only as a testament to the skill and creativity of these enslaved potters, but also as a subtle form of resistance and self-expression within a system that sought to dehumanize them.
How do you identify pottery?
Identifying pottery involves examining various distinguishing features on the piece. These can include marks indicating the studio where it was made, the potter responsible for crafting it, and the signature of the artist who decorated it. Additionally, identifying the form number and determining the type of clay used can provide valuable clues. When encountering unfamiliar marks, reference books serve as valuable resources to aid in the identification process. By carefully investigating these different elements, one can successfully identify pottery and shed light on its origin and maker.
How can you tell if pottery is ancient?
To determine if pottery is ancient, careful examination of its shape, decoration, glaze, and markings is crucial. The shape of the pottery can provide insights into the time period and place of its production, as different styles and forms were popular during different eras. Additionally, the decoration on the pottery can indicate the techniques and motifs prevalent during a specific historical period, providing further evidence of its antiquity. The glaze used can also contribute to identifying the age of the piece, as certain glazing techniques were popular in different time periods. However, one of the most significant factors in determining the antiquity of pottery is its markings, such as stamps, inscriptions, or signatures, which can help trace its origin and date of production. Through a thorough analysis of these characteristics, one can ascertain whether the pottery is truly ancient.
What is the difference between studio pottery and art pottery?
The distinguishing factor between studio pottery and art pottery lies in the production process and artistic intention. Studio pottery refers specifically to ceramic pieces crafted by individual craftsmen in their own studios. These pieces are often handcrafted, showcasing the artist’s unique techniques and personal touch. On the other hand, art pottery encompasses a broader category that includes both commercially produced and individually crafted pieces. While some art pottery may be mass-produced, the focus is on artistic expression and innovation, often blurring the line between function and aesthetics.