Weller Pottery

Samuel Augustus Weller, founder of the seventy-year Ohio enterprise of Weller Pottery, began with simple stoneware jars and clay flowerpots in 1872. By 1893 he began making his first art pottery ware, which in a short twenty years became the world’s largest company of the subsequent Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Modernism movements.

Weller Pottery’s first prominent line was the high gloss floral Louwelsa, with other popular lines soon to follow such as author Charles Dickens’ inspired Dickens Ware and the hand decorated Eocean type with flowers, figures, and fruit under the glaze. Other lines of note include the unique Knifewood, metallic Sicard and nature-adorned Baldin, Forest, and Woodcraft lines.

Noted artists of Weller Pottery include John Lessell, Jacques Sicard, Dorothy England Laughhead and Charles Babcock Upjohn. Weller Pottery used various production marks on the bottom of most of their pieces that were stamped or hand incised. The marks used included “WELLER”, “Weller”, “Weller Pottery” and “LOUWELSA WELLER”.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Weller Pottery was founded in 1872 by Samuel Augustus Weller in Fultonham, Ohio. By the 1880s, it had moved to Zanesville, Ohio, soon becoming one of the largest American art pottery producers. Collaborations with artists like Jacques Sicard and Frederick Hurten Rhead brought international recognition to Weller's innovative ceramic lines.
Weller Pottery stood out for its trailblazing use of glazes and molded forms. From shimmering, iridescent finishes in the Sicard line to the earthy elegance of matte green glazes, each technique reflected Weller’s dedication to craftsmanship and evolving design movements like Art Nouveau and the Arts and Crafts aesthetic.
We assess each piece for:
  • Genuine Weller pottery markings, including script, incised, and impressed styles
  • Condition integrity, noting any cracks, chips, repairs, or trial marks
  • Provenance and artist signatures
  • Shape and glaze consistency, even on unmarked vases.
Some of the most collectible lines include:
  • Sicard: Lustrous, metallic glazes with fine detail
  • Hudson: Hand-painted floral scenes on soft matte backgrounds
  • Matte Green: Iconic Arts and Crafts forms
  • Woodcraft and Forest: Molded natural scenes perfect for rustic interiors
  • Dickensware and Aurelian: Narrative pieces with high artistic appeal
Yes, there are many Weller pottery pieces that are highly sought after by serious collectors. These include early matte green vases, as well as trial-marked pieces that were used for glaze testing. Collectors also favor vases featuring floral or woodland motifs, and Weller Sicard pottery is particularly prized for its distinctive luster finish. Even unmarked vases can attract interest when they can be identified by their characteristic glaze and form.
Weller’s timeless forms are ideal for many spaces. Matte green vases pair beautifully with Arts and Crafts or Mission-style decor. Tall blue or fuchsia vases add a vintage touch to modern rooms, and floral-handled jardinières make elegant mantle centerpieces. Keep pieces out of direct sunlight and on secure surfaces to preserve their condition.