Cowan Pottery: Cleveland’s Art Deco Ceramics Legacy
Introduction to Cowan Pottery
Cowan Pottery stands as one of the most important yet often underappreciated contributors to American Art Deco ceramics. Based in Cleveland and later Rocky River, Ohio, the pottery combined artistic innovation with commercial production during the 1910s through early 1930s.
Founded by R. Guy Cowan, the company is best known for its sculptural figurines, bold glaze colors, and collaborations with notable designers of the period.
Early Life of R. Guy Cowan
R.Guy Cowan was born in East Liverpool, Ohio—one of the most important centers of American ceramics. Coming from a family of potters, he was immersed in the craft from an early age.
After formal art training and teaching ceramics in Cleveland, Cowan further developed his technical expertise by studying ceramic engineering at Alfred University. His combination of artistic vision and technical knowledge would define the success of his pottery.
Founding of Cowan Pottery
In 1913, Cowan established his own pottery studio in Cleveland. Early production focused on hand-crafted pieces using locally sourced clay, often finished with lead glazes.
By the late 1910s, Cowan Pottery gained national attention. The company received recognition at major exhibitions, including awards at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Following World War I—during which Cowan served as a captain—the pottery was revived and expanded into a larger operation.
The Biggest Factors That Determine Value
Form & Design
The most important factor is the shape and design of the piece.
- Organic forms with flowing or “whiplash” handles tend to attract strong interest
- Geometric forms with bold, architectural lines are also highly desirable
- Larger and more visually dramatic pieces generally perform better
Unusual or sculptural forms are often more sought-after than simpler, standard shapes.
Size Matters
In most cases, larger Teco pieces are more desirable than smaller ones. Taller vases and substantial forms tend to:
- Display better
- Have more visual impact
- Attract competitive bidding
However, rare small forms can still be valuable if the design is exceptional.
Glaze & Color
Teco is best known for its matte green glaze, often with darker undertones.
Collectors typically look for:
- Even, original surface
- Subtle variation in tone
- Depth in the glaze, especially in recessed areas
While other colors exist, the classic green matte finish remains the most recognizable and widely collected.
Condition
Condition plays a major role in value, especially with more delicate forms.
Things to check:
- Chips along edges or handles
- Hairline cracks
- Repairs or restoration
- Surface wear
With organic Teco, minor imperfections are not uncommon due to the thin, sculptural elements. However, significant damage or visible repairs can impact desirability.
Rarity & Form Recognition
Some Teco forms are widely recognized and actively collected, while others appear less frequently on the market.
Pieces that tend to perform best:
- Distinctive or iconic shapes
- Forms illustrated in reference books
- Designs with strong visual presence
If your piece looks unusual or sculptural, it may warrant closer evaluation.
Rarity & Form Recognition
Some Teco forms are widely recognized and actively collected, while others appear less frequently on the market.
Pieces that tend to perform best:
- Distinctive or iconic shapes
- Forms illustrated in reference books
- Designs with strong visual presence
If your piece looks unusual or sculptural, it may warrant closer evaluation.
Expansion in Rocky River
In 1920, production moved to a larger facility in Rocky River, Ohio. This new site allowed for increased output and the installation of multiple kilns.
During the 1920s, Cowan Pottery evolved from a small studio into a significant commercial enterprise:
- Distribution through major retailers such as department stores
- A workforce of dozens of employees
- Expansion into both artistic and utilitarian wares
By the mid-1920s, the company was producing everything from decorative vases and figurines to tiles, lamps, and tableware.
Artistic Style & Product Lines
Cowan Pottery is especially known for its strong connection to the Art Deco movement, which emphasized modern forms, stylized figures, and bold design.
Key Characteristics:
- Sleek, geometric Art Deco forms
- Stylized human and animal figurines
- High-gloss and matte glazes
- A wide palette including ivory, jade, blue, orange-red, and metallic tones
Notable Product Categories:
- Sculptural figurines and bookends
- Decorative vases and bowls
- Flower frogs and centerpieces
- Tiles and architectural ceramics
One of the most famous designs is the “Jazz Bowl”, created in 1931 by Viktor Schreckengost. Originally commissioned for Eleanor Roosevelt, it later became one of the most iconic pieces in American ceramics.
Our Art Glass Consignment Process
Selling art glass through Crafted Auctions is guided and transparent.
1
Initial Evaluation
Submit photos and basic details for review.
2
Consignment Discussion
We review auction suitability, commission, and timing.
3
Cataloging & Photography
Each piece is professionally photographed and described.
4
Auction Placement
Your glass is placed in a curated auction targeting relevant buyers.
5
Settlement
After the auction closes and payment clears, proceeds are issued per agreed terms.
The Lakeware Line
Introduced around 1928, Lakeware was a more affordable line aimed at commercial markets such as florists.
While shapes often mirrored earlier Cowan designs, Lakeware pieces featured simplified finishes and glazes. Today, these are identifiable by molded marks rather than incised signatures.
Designers & Artists
Cowan Pottery distinguished itself by collaborating with leading artists and designers, including:
- Waylande Gregory – Known for bold, sculptural forms
- Viktor Schreckengost – Creator of the Jazz Bowl
- Thelma Frazier Winter – Decorative and glaze work
- Alexander Blazys – Figurative designs
These collaborations elevated Cowan beyond typical production pottery into the realm of collectible art.
Marks & Identification
Cowan Pottery pieces can be identified through several marks depending on the production period:
Early Marks (1913–1917)
- Incised “Cowan Pottery”
- Artist monograms
- Hand-carved signatures
Mid-Period Marks (1920s)
- “Cowan Pottery” stamped in black
- Incised marks on redware bodies
Late Marks (1928–1931)
- “Cowan” or “Cowan Pottery” molded into the base
- “Lakeware” marks for commercial lines
Understanding these variations is essential for dating and valuing pieces.
In-House Shipping & Logistics
To further simplify the process for consignors and buyers, Crafted Auctions offers in-house packing and shipping on most items. This allows for:
- Consistent handling standards
- Reduced risk for fragile objects
- Faster post-sale fulfillment
- A better overall buyer experience
Our integrated logistics approach helps attract more bidders by removing uncertainty and improving convenience.
Production Techniques
Cowan Pottery used a mix of hand-crafted and mold-based production:
- Early pieces were often hand-thrown or hand-built
- Later production relied heavily on molds for scalability
- Slip casting became common for figurines
- Glazes ranged from experimental artistic finishes to consistent commercial coatings
The pottery also produced tiles, architectural elements, and even commercial items such as doorknobs and radio components.
Decline and Closure
Despite its artistic success, Cowan Pottery struggled financially during the late 1920s and early 1930s.
The company reorganized as Cowan Potters, Inc. in 1927 but continued to face economic challenges during the Great Depression. By 1931, the business closed, and remaining inventory was liquidated.
Afterward, R. Guy Cowan continued his career in ceramics and enamel work, later working with the Onondaga Pottery Company.
Why Collectors Value Cowan Pottery
Today, Cowan Pottery is highly regarded for several reasons:
- Strong connection to Art Deco design
- Collaboration with major American artists
- Limited production window (1913–1931)
- Wide variety of forms and glazes
Certain pieces—especially sculptural works and limited editions—can command strong prices at auction.
Thinking About Selling Cowan Pottery?
At Crafted Auctions, we specialize in marketing Art Deco and American art pottery to a targeted audience of collectors.
Whether you have a single Cowan figurine or an entire collection, we can help you:
- Identify your pieces
- Determine market value
- Reach qualified bidders
Start Your Consignment
If you’re considering selling through auction, our team is ready to help. We offer confidential consultations and honest assessments to determine if auction consignment is the right fit for your items.