Redware pottery is a term describing a variety of earthenware that is notable for its rich red hue after firing.
This pottery is generally made from clay containing a high amount of iron, which oxidizes during the firing process, giving the pottery its distinctive color.
The tradition of making redware dates back centuries and spans across various cultures, making it a fascinating subject for hobbyists and serious collectors alike.
To identify redware, you’ll look for certain characteristics such as color and glazing.
Traditional American redware often features a reddish body—ranging from red-brown to orange—attributed to iron deposits in the clay.
It can be unglazed or glazed with various substances, including lead or tin, to create a variety of finishes.
By examining these aspects, along with any marks or signatures on the bottom of the pieces, you can learn to discern redware pottery from other types.
Key Takeaways
- Recognizing redware involves examining color, glaze, and markings.
- Redware’s distinct color comes from iron-rich clay reacting to firing.
- The condition and proper care of redware are essential for preservation.
1. History and Origin
When you set out to identify redware pottery, understanding its roots across continents enhances your appreciation of each piece.
The origin story stretches from Asia and Europe to the shores of North America, where diverse techniques and influences intersect.
American Redware
The journey of redware pottery in North America begins primarily with the Pennsylvania Dutch, a term used for German-speaking immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania during the colonial period.
They carried with them European techniques and traditions which they then melded with their own.
John Pride is noted as the earliest American redware potter recognizable by name, dating his work to Salem, Massachusetts, in the mid-17th century.
American redware is characterized by its vibrant decorations, often made using goose quills dipped in colorful slip to inscribe names, dates, and motifs.
European Influence
Redware traces its European lineage through several cultures, each contributing distinct styles and techniques.
Roman pottery shared the red clay characteristic, as did German, Dutch, and English redware. In England, for example, the Delft area became well-known for its red stoneware.
The intersection of these European traditions crafted a rich heritage that laid the groundwork for American redware motifs and methods.
Asian Contributions
Deeply rooted in Asia, redware pottery’s earliest evidence dates back to the Neolithic period.
The red color is natural, a result of high iron content in the clay, a signature that speaks to its longevity and prevalence in Asian culture.
One of the oldest known redware artifacts is a terracotta jar from ancient China, estimated to be over 7,000 years old. Asian redware crossed continents, influencing a global appreciation for its aesthetic and utility.
2. Identifying Characteristics
In your quest to identify redware pottery, you should be keen on notable features such as color, decorations, and forms that set it apart from other earthenwares.
Color and Iron Content
Redware pottery is distinctive for its red-brown color, a result of the high iron content within the clay.
When fired, this iron oxidizes, turning the clay into various shades ranging from a deep orange to reddish-brown. This hue is a key identifier for redware pieces.
Glazes and Decorations
Typically, redware is found both glazed and unglazed. The glazed pieces often have a coating made from lead or manganese, creating a shiny, often orange to red-brown color on the surface.
Sgraffito is a technique you might notice where a layer of slip (a liquid clay mixture) is applied before scratching in designs to reveal the clay beneath.
Painted motifs are common as well, adding to the rich decorative history of redware.
Types and Forms
Redware pottery includes a variety of items, from plates and pots to decorative tiles.
They are typically porous if unglazed, so it’s common to find them glazed with terra sigillata, a fine, glossy slip that seals the surface.
Beyond kitchenware, redware can be found as sanding pots used for drying writing ink, with the glazes contributing to the preservation of the pottery over time.
3. Assessing Quality and Condition
When you come across redware pottery, your ability to assess its quality and condition is crucial, especially if the piece is collectible or you consider adding it to a museum collection.
Structural Integrity
Check for Cracks: Inspect your redware for any signs of cracks. If a piece has hairline fractures or larger cracks, it could significantly affect its structural integrity and value.
Look for Repairs: Sometimes, redware pottery might have been repaired to enhance its strength. Identify any restorations by looking for uneven color patches or irregularities in glaze, as these can impact collectibility.
Surface Examination
Glaze Condition: Redware typically comes with a particular glaze, which can vary from minimal to vibrant. Pay attention to the glaze’s consistency and note any flaking or crazing, as this may indicate age but also affect value.
Color Vibrancy: The high iron content in redware clay provides its characteristic color that ranges from rusty orange to dark brown.
Assess the vibrancy of the color; intense hues often suggest a well-preserved piece and can be more desirable.
By following these guidelines, you’ll improve your discernment of redware’s quality and condition, helping to determine its collectibility and value.
Remember, while some redware is quite affordable and available, rarer pieces, particularly those in excellent condition, are prized for museum collections.
4. Collecting and Care
In the realm of folk art, redware pottery is both an aesthetic and historic collectible. Your journey as a collector involves knowing how to discern unique pieces and ensuring their longevity.
Building a Collection
Start with Education:
- Books & Literature: Read up on redware pottery to understand its history and characteristics.
- Museum & Hands-On Experience: Visit museums or dealers where handling pieces is permissible to gain tactile knowledge.
Identifying Rare Redware:
- Decorative Techniques: Look for Pennsylvania Dutch styles using goose quills for stylized decoration.
- Quality of Artwork: Pieces with detailed art or shapes typically hold more value.
Avoiding Reproductions:
- Price Too Good to Be True: Beware of deals that don’t match the item’s perceived value.
- FAQ Resources: Utilize frequently asked questions resources from trusted antique pottery forums or websites to help spot differences between authentic pieces and reproductions.
Maintenance and Preservation
Handling and Cleaning:
- Handle your redware with clean hands or cotton gloves to prevent oils from affecting the surface.
- Clean gently using a soft, dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that can erode glazes or paints.
Display and Storage:
- Display away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Store in a stable environment; avoid fluctuations in temperature and humidity which can cause cracks or crazing.
Regular Inspection:
- Periodically examine your pieces for signs of damage or wear.
- Early detection of issues can prevent further deterioration.