Burley Winter Pottery

The Burley Winter Pottery Company was founded in 1872 in Crooksville, Ohio. Like several early art pottery makers, the firm produced mostly utilitarian wares at first - focusing on practical pottery for the home and farm. Soon after, the owners William Newton Burley and Wilson Winter took on a partner, Brown, and began producing their early art pottery.

After Brown left, the company brought on the popular designer Stoin M. Stoin in 1932. Stoin was well-known in the art pottery community for his work at Weller and Niloak Pottery, where he crafted beautiful pieces and popular lines. His time at Burley Winter would be no different, and the 1930s saw some of the best art pottery to come out of the company. In anticipation of the war, Burley Winter moved back to its roots and began producing functional pottery once again in the 1940s.

In the golden era of Burley Winter, the 1930s, their art pottery lines were distinguished by their glazing and timelessness. Stoin used a very specific technique, focusing on mottling blues, greens, and reds to craft a renowned matte finish. The pieces are often thought to look older than they are since the designs attempt to replicate the aged surface of more dated pottery. Burley Winter preferred garden-oriented art pottery lines and produced planters, jardinieres, and their most popular shape, vases.

Before the 1930s, Burley Winter pieces are often marked with the “Heart Brand”, a BW inside of a heart. The 1930 Stoin lines, however, either feature an incised “Burley Winter” mark, or simply no mark at all.

By the 1980s, even the sales of utilitarian pottery were not enough to keep the firm afloat, and the company went up for auction. The possibility for more works like those of the 1930s ended along with the business, cementing the 1930s Stoin pieces as a treasure trove of sought-after art pottery for years to come.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Burley Winter Pottery stands out for its rugged, utilitarian aesthetic paired with rich, earthy glazes. The brand is known for its thick-walled stoneware crocks, jugs, and utilitarian vessels, often adorned with hand-applied decorative elements. Collectors value its durable construction and the signature rustic appeal that makes each piece feel both purposeful and artistic. Originating in Crooksville, Ohio, the pottery’s craftsmanship and regional influence make it a cherished addition to any collection.
Authentic Burley Winter Pottery typically features embossed or incised markings on the base, which may include the full name "Burley Winter" or an abbreviation of it. Some pieces also display a mold number, indicating the shape or size of the item. These markings are key for verifying authenticity and distinguishing original pieces from reproductions. Be cautious of items with irregular or unclear markings, as they might indicate later reproductions or unmarked pieces not attributed to Burley Winter.
Several factors influence the value of Burley Winter Pottery, including condition, rarity, and historical significance. Before purchasing, examine the piece for authenticity markers such as embossed logos or mold numbers. Pieces in pristine condition with no chips, cracks, or restorations are more valuable. Unique glazes, limited production runs, and well-preserved markings also increase worth. Provenance and historical context can significantly enhance a piece’s appeal, particularly if it has a documented connection to pivotal periods in the company’s production history.
Dating Burley Winter Pottery involves examining markings, glaze styles, and construction techniques to determine the authenticity of the piece. Pieces from earlier periods often have thicker walls and simpler, utilitarian designs, while later items may feature more decorative elements. Researching mold numbers can also reveal the era of production. Consulting reference guides or experts familiar with Crooksville, Ohio pottery is beneficial for accurate dating and valuation.
Collectors particularly seek out large, utilitarian pieces, such as ceramic vases and jugs, known for their robustness and distinctive glaze finishes. Uncommon colors, like cobalt blue or unique green glazes, are highly valued. Pieces with intact markings or rare mold numbers are especially desirable. Additionally, limited-edition or early-production items attract higher interest due to their scarcity and historical significance.
Investing in Burley Winter Pottery is appealing due to its historical significance and enduring popularity. As interest in American art pottery remains strong, well-preserved pieces with clear markings and unique features are likely to appreciate in value. Collectors appreciate the brand's blend of utility and artistry, and high-quality examples continue to hold their market appeal, especially when accompanied by verified provenance.