Haeger Pottery

Haeger Potteries had humble beginnings in Dundee, Illinois as it first opened in 1871 to manufacture bricks. Edmund Haeger, the son of founder David H. Haeger, transitioned to creating art pottery in 1914 with the help of talented Martin Stangl.

The company’s history proved itself adaptable; the classic Arts and Crafts designs of Early Haeger developed into Art Deco in the 1920s, before dabbling in “Old World” motifs and Pueblo Indian art methodologies. Perhaps the best and most recognizable period was the Royal Haeger, which started in 1938 and brought the company to international fame for decades to come.

Haeger Potteries include shapes like the nostalgic Greek vases in the early Adam and Eve collection, the ebony black, high-gloss panthers, and home décor “stick-up” lamps of Royal Hager. Ceramics were often made in batches, with the factory’s forty employees producing over 3,000 pieces daily. Beginning in the 1930s, glazes varied from the magnesium-based d’Este finish and the bubbly pastel Boko (or Boco) glaze, to the Red Sand designs and the Haeger Gold Tweed Glaze of 22K gold.

Markings of the pottery include sought-after paper labels, which can be in the colors gold and green, or black and silver. Labels before 1939 can include “Dundee, Ill.” while labels made afterward have the new plant location of “Macomb, Ill.” on them. Later pieces can also be stamped with Royal Haeger.

Artists of Haeger Potteries include Martin Stangl and Royal Hickman, who both left to start their own companies. Others, such as Sebastiano Maglio, Eric Olsen, and C. Glen Richardson, among many others collaboratively upheld the 145 years of design and class of Haeger Potteries.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Authentic Haeger USA pottery is typically marked on the base with the Haeger name, either impressed, incised, or stamped. Some earlier pieces from the early 20th century may be unmarked. In such cases, authenticity can be verified through glaze characteristics, form, and comparison to documented examples in reference guides, such as The House of Haeger (1914-1944).
Haeger USA pottery stands out for its integration of American design movements, including Art Deco geometry, Arts and Crafts simplicity, and Mid-Century sculptural form. Collectors prize the brand's artistic glazes, from frosted matte greens to bold lava finishes, and its architectural shapes, such as buttressed bases and twisted silhouettes. The Royal Haeger pottery line introduced more experimental styles and designer collaborations, adding further value to the collection. Scarcity, particularly of early 1920s production, also contributes to its desirability in the art pottery market.
Collectors seek out Haeger’s frosted matte greens from the 1920s, as well as later innovations like orange peel lava and yellow-green blended glazes found in Royal Haeger pottery. Matte and mottled finishes reflect careful glaze control, which contributes to their appeal. These finishes, while distinctly American, share the refined surface techniques appreciated in high-end French pottery traditions.
Yes, mint condition pieces without chips, cracks, or repairs retain the highest value. Minor glaze peppering or kiln flaws may be acceptable, but collectors generally seek pieces in excellent original condition to preserve investment quality.
Haeger USA pottery, especially through the Royal Haeger pottery line, developed a distinct voice among Mid-Century makers. While Roseville pottery and McCoy focused on earlier forms and utility ware, Haeger embraced bold glazes, sculptural designs, and decorative innovation. Its pieces appeal to collectors seeking artistic form grounded in American modernism, rather than European avant-garde influence.
Haeger pottery was created with both decorative and utilitarian purposes in mind, particularly during its peak production years. Today, vintage examples are best preserved for display, as regular use may lead to glaze damage, structural wear, or diminished value. Displaying these pieces protects their historical integrity and collector appeal.