Marblehead Pottery

Marblehead Pottery began as a small studio pottery in 1904. Marblehead Pottery originated to teach ceramics as a convalescent therapy to sanitarium patients. From that humble beginning, Marblehead Pottery grew into one of the most sought-after and respected small studio potteries of the 1900s.

Arthur Baggs became the director of Marblehead Pottery around 1905. Baggs brought to Marblehead a decorating style that focused on hand-incised or surface painted geometric designs on grounds of slightly contrasting colors. In 1915, Baggs became the owner of Marblehead Pottery.

During the 1920s, as with many of the American art pottery companies, Marblehead began to focus almost exclusively on production art pottery. However, Marblehead's production pottery still maintained the high quality seen on the hand-decorated items. The production art pottery Marblehead produced was finely thrown and glazed in hard, pebbled matte finishes. Typical glaze colors are blue, green, pink, yellow, brown or gray. It is estimated that 95% of Marblehead's output was production art pottery. Pottery was marked with the "M.P." cipher and, in some cases, with the artist's initials. Marblehead Pottery ceased production in 1936.

Even at its high point, Marblehead remained a small studio pottery never employing more than six people. The company received many awards for their work, from The Arts & Crafts Society, Boston medal in 1925, to first place in the Robineau Memorial Exhibition, Syracuse Museum of Fine Arts in 1933. To this day, Marblehead continues to be among the most sought-after arts and crafts style pottery ever produced.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Marblehead Pottery (1904–1936) captivates collectors for its simple Arts and Crafts pottery designs, soft matte glazes, and exceptional craftsmanship. With limited production and few surviving pieces, it remains a rare and highly desirable item. Its timeless beauty and connection to early 20th-century American artistry ensure it continues to hold both historical and aesthetic appeal.
Just Art Pottery verifies each piece through signature kiln marks, artist initials, the impressed ship medallion, or incised “MP” cipher. Condition reports include restorations, hairlines, and natural kiln variations, enabling confident purchases.
Collectors prize smooth hand-thrown silhouettes in baluster vases, cabinet shapes, and flaring bowls. Simpler forms shine in soft matte glazes of blue-gray, green, and buff. Baluster vases, flaring bowls, and cabinet pieces in soft blue, buff, or green matte glazes are most desirable. Rare examples with stylized floral motifs carry special appeal.
Check for hallmark traits like velvety matte glaze, symmetrical form, and marks such as the ship medallion or “MP.” The condition is critical; hairlines, chips, or restorations significantly impact display value and collectibility.
Recognized for serene matte glazes, celadon green, dusty rose, buff, and steel blue, Marblehead pieces display subtle tonal shifts and a velvety finish. These refined hues embody the Arts and Crafts ideal of harmony and craftsmanship.
The collection includes framed tiles, jardinieres, cabinet vases, baluster forms, and ceramic pottery bowls. Smaller pieces are suitable for display or gifting, while larger ones serve as focal points. Scarcity of certain forms enhances their appeal.