Date of Award
6-1992
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Valuation Science
Department
Business
Abstract
This thesis examines market trends and connoisseurship implications for four prominent American art potteries—Grueby, Newcomb, Teco, and George Ohr—within the context of the Arts and Crafts Movement. Focusing on high-end auction sales from 1980 to 1991, the study identifies approximately 15 top-selling pieces from each pottery to explore intrinsic and extrinsic qualities that contribute to their value. Sellers provides historical background on the potteries, analyzes auction data, and outlines criteria that appraisers and collectors use to evaluate quality, such as form, glaze, rarity, and maker attribution. The research situates these ceramics within the broader cultural and philosophical ideals of the Arts and Crafts era, emphasizing craftsmanship, simplicity, and utility. It also highlights how museum exhibitions, scholarly publications, and collector enthusiasm helped elevate art pottery from relative obscurity to a competitive and refined collecting category. Sellers’ work offers a valuable framework for personal property appraisers and scholars alike, including a glossary of terms, conservation tips, and references to significant public collections. Ultimately, the thesis positions art pottery not only as decorative objects but also as historical artifacts deeply embedded in design ideology and evolving market dynamics.
Recommended Citation
Sellers, Carolyn K., "Grueby, Newcomb, Teco, and Ohr: Market Trends and Connoisseurship Implications for American Art Pottery" (1992). Theses. 1353.
https://digitalcommons.lindenwood.edu/theses/1353
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