William Purcell McDonald (1882-1931)

William Purcell McDonald was born in Cincinnati on September 18, 1864. He joined Rookwood pottery in 1882, one of the earliest of the artists employed there. In 1904 he was promoted to the head of the architectural department, although he continued to produce pieces until his death in 1931. His daughter Margaret Helen McDonald began working there under his tutelage in 1913. Collector interest in his pieces is considered to be above average.