For art collectors and enthusiasts alike, there’s nothing like owning a distinguished piece of pottery. Most of the products that are produced today are made on a large scale. While this keeps prices low and allows consumers to purchase beautiful items for their collections, there is no mistaking the quality gap that exists between modern and traditional manufacturers.

The Dedham Difference

One of the leading art pottery companies of the 20th century was the Dedham Pottery. This company was founded in 1896 by the Robertson family in the Massachusetts town of the same name. Although its run only lasted until 1943, the Dedham brand has long outlived its creators. Mass-produced pottery simply cannot compare to the intricately designed, handmade items that gave companies like Dedham their world-renowned reputation.

It’s worth noting that Dedham wasn’t the Robertsons’ first foray into the world of pottery, as the family had a tradition in the industry dating back to 1867. Chelsea Pottery (named for a neighboring town) operated until 1895. Given Dedham’s rapid launch and wild success as a ceramics manufacturer, it’s clear the Robertson family had big plans in store even before they started the business.

The style, the features, the legend

Avid collectors deeply understand and appreciate the fact that each maker of ancient American pottery had individual characteristics that defined their brands. The quality of work was considered the most important factor in doing business, as opposed to cutting costs with cheap material.

In addition, success depended on carving out a personal brand on the field. For Dedham, this specifically meant high-fired stoneware crafting which was achieved by carefully glazing the outer surface. Another distinguishing feature of Dedham pottery in general was the inclusion of thick rims.

The company made a wide variety of products during its time of operation, from dinnerware to vases. However, it is the latter that propelled Dedham into the upper echelons of the industry. If you’re lucky enough to find a blood-red glazed vase bearing the brand’s signature initials, the value of this particular piece is well over $5,000 or more in some cases.

An important piece of advice for new collectors is that the size and condition (to some extent) of Dedham’s American Art Pottery are not the factors that define value. Most of the time, what matters most is the shape and polish of the piece.