Fulper Pottery

Fulper Pottery was incorporated in 1809 by the Fulper Brothers in Flemington, New Jersey. The earliest of Fulper Pottery was crafted from the rich clay found in Hunterdon County, which was also home to several other potteries. This area in the country became known as the original home of 'Bennington' type of art pottery, such as those pottery pieces finished in salt glazes.

The art pottery line was formally introduced with the Vasecraft series in 1909. Vasecraft was influenced by ancient Greek and Chinese ceramics with simple shapes and superb matte, crystalline and flambé glazes. The early years in Fulper Pottery are indicative of the striking quality glazes that Fulper Pottery is so well known for. Using approximately 100 different glazes over the years, there are many examples that are representative of the beauty of even the most common forms.

Likewise, there are a variety of markings over the years. Fulper’s middle period of production also used other marks including the Rafco mark and Flemington stamp. Marking goes as follows:

  • Fulper Rectangular Ink Mark (1909-1916)
  • Fulper Vasecraft Paper Label (1909-1916)
  • Prang Rectangular Ink Mark (1913-1929)
  • Raised Oval Fulper Mark (1916-1922)
  • Incised Fulper Mark (1916-1922)
  • Oval Ink-Stamped Vertical Mark (1922-1928)
  • And, the Fulper Horizontal Impressed Mark (1928-1935)

Fulper Pottery artists include John Kunsman, the Rutgers University professor Dr. Cullen Parmelee, and Martin Stangl. In 1910, Martin Stangl became the ceramics engineer for Fulper Pottery, as this area was growing in leaps and bounds. In this role, he was credited for the development of many of the art pottery forms and glazes for the company while also juggling the difficulties inherent of a new business model. Fulper Pottery, under Stangl's direction, became the first American pottery company that introduced a line of dinnerware to the American people in glazed solid colors.

Fulper Pottery was incorporated in 1899 although the company was well established prior to this date. The first art pottery line introduced by Fulper was Vasecraft in 1909. In 1910, Martin Stangl became Fulper's ceramics engineer. Stangl was responsible for the development of many of the art pottery forms and glazes for Fulper. 

In 1929 Stangl acquired Fulper Pottery, and art pottery continued to be produced in much smaller quantity and lower quality until about 1935. In 1935, Stangl shifted to production of dinner ware, and in 1955, the company was renamed to Stangl Pottery. 

Most of Fulper's early work, up to and including the late teens, represents the superior quality glazes for which the company is famous. Fulper Pottery used approximately 100 glazes, ranging from the Chinese-inspired "famille rose" to the pale "Alice blue" and deep "verte antique" glaze.

Markings included the name Fulper in a vertical box, with later shapes bearing the impressed horizontal "Fulper." Some pieces by Martin Stangl include his cipher, with the "M" juxtaposed over the "S" initial. 

You have successfully subscribed! We will send you an email when the pottery you selected is updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fulper pottery for sale through Just Art Pottery offers a rare chance to own a true piece of early American ceramic history. Originating in Flemington, New Jersey, Fulper Pottery became a leading force in American ceramics in the early 20th century. Under the leadership of William H. Fulper II, the company embraced the artistic spirit of the Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau movements, producing hand-thrown and molded forms adorned with experimental and often breathtaking glazes. Fulper's deep roots in innovation and artistry ensure that every piece of Fulper pottery carries historical and aesthetic value.
At Just Art Pottery, our collection of Fulper pottery for sale is hand-selected and authenticated by experts. We examine Fulper pottery marks, glaze consistency, and condition with precision. Whether it's a vase with its racetrack ink stamp, a lamp base featuring distinctive stilt or kiln marks, or a trial-glazed vessel, each item is verified for authenticity and craftsmanship.
Fulper Pottery is known for its innovative glaze work, from rich crystalline finishes to velvety matte glaze surfaces that flow organically over molded forms. Collectors will find everything from figural shapes and lamp bases to hand-thrown vases in hues of flambe red, Chinese blue, and curdled green. Many pieces reveal Fulper pottery marks such as racetrack ink stamps, incised signatures, or rare trial marks, each offering a window into Fulper’s historic production techniques.
Just Art Pottery has offered carefully vetted collections rooted in legacy and authenticity for over two decades. When you explore Fulper pottery for sale through us, you gain access to secure packaging, accurate restoration disclosures, and a team of ceramic specialists dedicated to preserving American pottery heritage.
Fulper pottery offers a wide range of accessible and collectible pieces ideal for beginners. With distinct Fulper pottery marks and a variety of glazes and forms, first-time buyers can start with confidence. Our listings include helpful details and background, so you can build your collection with ease and insight.
The rarest Fulper pottery often includes experimental glaze pieces, signed trial forms, and early matte glaze works. Items marked with unique Fulper pottery marks, such as hand-incised initials or stilt-marked bases, are especially sought after.
Authentic Fulper pottery marks include racetrack ink stamps, incised Fulper names, and impressed or raised marks. Some pieces may show stilt or kiln marks and even rare trial marks. Our listings include high-resolution photos and mark identifications to guide your purchase.