Cobalt on Clay Red Wing Salt Glaze Stoneware Decorations

The authors lead us through the Red Wing clay industry beginning with the discovery of clay through the production of stoneware. The migration of potters is noted as decorations and product features are found on pieces produced in Ohio and Illinois. This book illustrates the wide variety of decorations that were applied to salt glaze stoneware produced in Red Wing, Minnesota. Hundreds of photographed examples of Red Wing pieces are used to help readers learn about how the different companies in Red Wing marked their ware in the late 1800s. In addition, this book will help readers learn how to identify products produced in Red Wing because it includes many detailed examples featuring Red Wing stoneware product characteristics along with characteristics of pieces produced outside of Red Wing.

Danaè earned a Ph.D. in medicinal chemistry and believes the science behind the creation of these products from naturally derived clay, cobalt, and salt really drew her interest into Red Wing's pottery production. Although she is a retired University professor, she still loves teaching and appreciates every opportunity in which she can share what she herself has learned about the products produced in Red Wing. Whether it is alongside her husband at Prock's Crocks and Antiques or while giving tours at the Pottery Museum of Red Wing, where she has been also serving as President of the Board of Directors, her enthusiasm for Red Wing stoneware is evident and contagious.

When Bill was a young boy, he began to take note of these utilitarian stoneware items when he went to farm auctions with his dad. His passion for these products grew as he built Prock's Crocks and Antiques from the ground up. He treasures visiting with customers that come into the antique store and says that nothing makes him happier than finding a special piece for someone and seeing them smile.