Stoneware

Stoneware is high-fired ceramic with a hard, vitrified and usually low-absorption body. It differs from more porous earthenware and from porcelain’s often white, sometimes translucent body.

Identification

A dense body, weight and durable surface may provide clues, but several characteristics should be assessed together. Salt, feldspathic and art glazes occur. Marks, model numbers and manufacture can identify maker and period.

Condition

Check hairlines, chips, repairs, glaze cracks and production flaws. Uneven glaze and firing marks may be original. Maker, designer, age, decoration, rarity and provenance influence interest.