Hobbies And Interests
History
Maria Longworth Nichols started Rookwood Pottery in Cincinnati, Ohio. The company was the first female-owned manufacturing firm in the United States. Rookwood changed hands several times after filing for bankruptcy in 1941.
Time Frame
In 2005, Christopher Rose and several other investors bought Rookwood's assets, including its original molds and glaze recipes, and restarted production of tiles and other pieces in Cincinnati .
Identification
Rookwood Pottery is branded with the firm's symbol, a backwards "R" attached to the letter "P." Individual artists also sign their pieces with their own distinctive ciphers.
Potential
Collectors look for early Rookwood pieces, including examples of the Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau styles. In 2004, a vase by artist Kataro Shirayamadani sold at auction for a record $350,750.
Significance
Rookwood's goal was to produce fine art pottery that could compete with European ceramics. Nichols, who was inspired by Japanese design, hired experienced artists and master glaze technicians.