Wall Pockets: Collectible Ceramic & Pottery Wall Vases
Wall pockets are flat-backed decorative vessels designed for wall mounting, functioning as hanging vases or purely ornamental accents. Produced extensively from the 1890s through the 1950s by American, European, and Japanese potteries, wall pockets come in an astonishing variety of shapes, colors, and styles. Major American producers include Roseville, Weller, McCoy, Hull, Shawnee, Abingdon, Red Wing, and Royal Copley, while European makers such as Goldscheider, Gouda, and various German and Czech firms contributed distinctive designs.
Identification & Makers
Wall pockets are identified by backstamps, paper labels, shape numbers, and glaze characteristics specific to each manufacturer. Roseville pieces bear the raised or impressed "Roseville" mark with shape numbers. McCoy examples may show "McCoy USA" or earlier unmarked production. Hull pieces display the distinctive "Hull Art" or "Hull USA" marks. Many wall pockets are unmarked, requiring identification through published pattern guides and collector references. The flat back, mounting hole, and half-round profile are universal characteristics.
Popular Forms & Styles
- Floral: Modeled as flowers, flower baskets, and cornucopias, the most common category
- Bird/Animal: Parrots, owls, fish, butterflies, and other creatures
- Human Figures: Ladies in bonnets, Dutch children, Oriental figures, and cherubs
- Fruit: Grapes, apples, pears, and mixed fruit compositions
- Geometric/Art Deco: Stylized fan, shell, and abstract designs
- Novelty: Clocks, hats, shoes, violins, and whimsical objects
- Religious: Madonna figures and blessing fonts
Auction Price Ranges
| Item | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Common commercial pottery (McCoy, Hull) | $15 - $50 |
| Shawnee/Royal Copley figural | $10 - $40 |
| Red Wing wall pockets | $30 - $100 |
| Abingdon wall pockets | $20 - $60 |
| Roseville (common patterns) | $50 - $200 |
| Roseville (premium patterns) | $200 - $800+ |
| Weller (standard lines) | $40 - $150 |
| Rookwood wall pockets | $100 - $500 |
| Goldscheider/European Art Deco | $75 - $400 |
| Gouda pottery wall pockets | $50 - $300 |
| Rare/exceptional examples | $300 - $1,500+ |
Condition Factors
The hanging hole is the most vulnerable point; cracks radiating from the hole compromise structural integrity and significantly reduce value. Back edges chip from contact with walls during hanging. Applied decoration (flowers, leaves, ribbons) should be complete and undamaged. Glaze should be examined for chips, particularly along upper rims where items were hung and occasionally bumped. Crazing is expected on older pieces but excessive crazing with staining diminishes appeal. For hand-decorated pieces, paint quality and completeness matter. Original factory imperfections (glaze runs, minor kiln marks) are accepted.
Collecting Tips
Wall pockets are among the most displayable and affordable ceramics collectibles. Many collectors create dramatic wall arrangements with groups of complementary pieces. Roseville wall pockets are the most valuable American examples, with patterns like Blackberry, Baneda, and Jonquil commanding premium prices. McCoy, Hull, and Shawnee offer attractive, affordable collecting. Color matters within patterns; unusual colorways of common forms can be significantly rarer. European examples by Goldscheider and Gouda bring strong prices among Art Deco collectors. Japanese export pieces (including Occupied Japan marks) provide an affordable niche. Groups or pairs command premiums. Condition is crucial for desirable patterns but less critical for common pieces. Avoid heavy pieces for wall display without secure mounting hardware.