RumRill: American Art Pottery by Red Wing

RumRill pottery refers to a line of decorative art pottery designed by George RumRill and manufactured primarily by Red Wing Potteries in Red Wing, Minnesota, from 1933 to 1938. After parting with Red Wing, RumRill contracted with other potteries including Shawnee and Florence Pottery. The line is known for its elegant shapes, matte and glossy glazes, and Art Deco-influenced designs that offered affordable sophistication during the Depression era.

History

• 1933: George RumRill, an Arkansas businessman, contracted with Red Wing Potteries to produce his designs
• 1933-1938: Peak production at Red Wing; most collected pieces date from this period
• 1938: RumRill and Red Wing parted ways; production shifted to other manufacturers
• 1938-1942: Pieces produced by Shawnee Pottery (Zanesville, Ohio) and others
• Post-1942: Limited wartime production; the line effectively ended

George RumRill was a designer and marketer, not a potter. He conceived shapes and glaze concepts, then contracted with established potteries to manufacture them under his name.

Identification and Marks

• Red Wing-produced pieces: Marked "RumRill" in an impressed or raised mark, sometimes with a shape number
• Red Wing mold numbers: Range primarily from 100 to 700 series
• Shawnee-produced pieces: May have "RumRill" mark with different numbering system
• Glaze types: Matte green, blue, ivory, and pink are most common; glossy glazes in various colors also produced
• Construction: Slip-cast with generally good quality control during the Red Wing period

Types and Forms

Condition Factors

• Glaze condition: Crazing is common but heavy crazing reduces value; chips to glaze edges are more serious
• Mold quality: Red Wing-produced examples generally show sharper mold detail than later production
• Color: Unusual glaze colors (deep burgundy, orange, metallic) command premiums over standard green or ivory
• Size: Larger pieces (12+ inches) are less common and more valuable
• Damage: Hairline cracks are difficult to detect in dark glazes — inspect carefully under strong light

Collecting Tips

• Red Wing-era pieces (1933-1938) are the most desirable and best-made examples
• The Art Deco influenced forms with geometric handles and angular bodies are the most sought-after designs
• Console sets (bowl plus pair of candleholders) should be purchased as complete sets when possible
• RumRill is often found at Midwest estate sales and antique shows, particularly in Minnesota and surrounding states
• Group displays of matching glaze colors create visual impact and are a popular collecting strategy
• Prices remain accessible compared to Roseville or Rookwood, making RumRill attractive for new pottery collectors