The clay used for Pillin pottery was typically red-brick in color. William experimented with different glazes and produced some pieces without Polia’s artwork. However, it was Polia’s artistic designs that garnered her international recognition. Polia was inspired by the Cubism movement and by the works of Pablo Picasso whom she greatly admired. Her style is often referred to as “Byzantine”. Polia’s favorite subjects were women, horses, birds, fish and other animals painted over colorfully rich glazes. The overall pallet had an organic, jewel-toned quality.
Each piece of Pillin pottery was hand-thrown, glazed, painted and hence, unique. Because Pillin worked from her garage (and in her kitchen when she lived in Chicago), she did not have access to expert tradesmen, chemists or specialized equipment that could mass produce her work. For that reason, most Pillin pottery is highly crazed. Rare pieces with little to no crazing command higher values.
Most pieces of Pillin pottery were produced beginning in 1948 and marked on the bottom with Polia’s signature “Pillin” in either thick or thin black ink. Rare pieces produced in her Chicago kitchen in 1946 and 1947 are incised “46” or “47”. Some very early pieces are marked “W+P” above the Pillin signature to indicate William throwing the pieces and Polia decorating them. Thicker thrown pieces tend to indicate earlier works. The age of the piece has no bearing on its collectability.
Frequently Asked Questions
When you're considering adding a piece of Polia Pillin pottery to your collection, it's helpful to understand that her work bridges fine art and functional ceramics. Pillin hand-painted and signed most pieces, so the value comes from both her exceptional craftsmanship and her artistic reputation. Look for a clear signature or studio mark, and consider whether the piece was created for display or everyday use. Many of her more decorative works with intricate figurative scenes are best suited for display, while simpler forms may be functional.
Authenticating Polia Pillin pottery starts with the signature. Look for 'Pillin' or 'Polia Pillin' hand-signed on the base, often accompanied by a small inscription, number, or date. Authentic pieces typically feature hand-painted marks rather than printed or stamped signatures. Kiln marks, where the piece rested on the kiln shelf during firing, can also support authenticity, though they're not definitive on their own. Compare your piece with documented examples in auction records, reference books, or reputable dealer listings to verify that the signature style and decorative techniques are consistent with her known work.
Some of the most desirable Polia Pillin mid-century modern pottery pieces showcase richly painted figurative scenes, often featuring children or animals, set against softly stippled matte or satin glazes. Matte glazes, with their velvety, non-reflective finish, beautifully complement her narrative painting style and lend the work a sophisticated, artistic quality. The most collectible forms are those shaped in molds rather than wheel-thrown, and they feature her distinctive figurative imagery, bold use of color, and clear signatures.
Yes, chips, cracks, glaze crazing, overspray, or amateur repainting can significantly reduce a piece's value, even for highly desirable forms. Restoration isn't automatically a deal-breaker, but it must be disclosed and professionally done. Skillful restoration may preserve most of the display value, but pieces with minimal or no damage always command higher prices and greater collector confidence. Strong provenance and documented ownership history further enhance value, especially when paired with excellent condition.
Polia Pillin's pottery works beautifully as both. Her pieces are visually striking and make excellent additions to any space. Her work is widely recognized and has a loyal collector base, so signature pieces in excellent condition have demonstrated strong value retention over time. Value depends on rarity, condition, signature clarity, and market demand.
If you're buying for display, focus on the visual appeal: Does the glaze draw you in? Do the painted scenes resonate with your aesthetic? Will it enhance your space?
If you're buying as an investment, prioritize a well-documented signature, minimal or no restoration, rare or distinctive forms, and solid provenance.
To preserve your Polia Pillin piece, treat it like fine art. Place it away from direct sunlight, and on a stable surface where it won't be knocked over or bumped. Use a felt pad underneath to avoid scratches. Most Pillin pieces, such as her ceramic vases for sale, are decorative and should not be used for food or beverages. Older glazes may contain materials that aren't suitable for contact with consumables.
For cleaning, use a soft, dry cloth; avoid harsh detergents or acids; and never immerse older pieces in water if you detect any hairline cracks.