Ceramic Arts Studio: Madison, Wisconsin's Charming Figurine Factory
Ceramic Arts Studio was a small but prolific ceramics company operating in Madison, Wisconsin, from 1940 to 1955, founded by Lawrence Rabbitt and Reuben Sand. Under the artistic direction of Betty Harrington, the studio produced an enormous range of hand-decorated figurines, head vases, salt and pepper shakers, wall plaques, and shelf sitters that captured mid-century American taste with their whimsical charm and Art Moderne styling. Despite their relatively recent production, CAS pieces have developed a devoted collector following.
Major Product Lines
- Figurines: Single figures and paired sets of dancers, musicians, children, animals, and storybook characters; the core CAS product
- Salt and pepper shakers: Matched pairs in figural forms -- the most popular collecting category; hundreds of different designs
- Shelf sitters: Figures designed to sit on the edge of a shelf with legs dangling; a distinctive CAS form
- Head vases and wall plaques: Decorative wall-mounted faces and figural plaques; less common than freestanding figures
- Metal accessories: Wire stands, hangers, and display accessories designed to accompany specific figurines
- Themed pairs and sets: Many CAS pieces were designed as complementary pairs or groups (boy/girl, comedy/tragedy, mother/child)
Identification and Marks
- Backstamps: Most pieces marked "Ceramic Arts Studio, Madison, Wisc." in various configurations; earlier pieces may use "Betty Harrington" marks
- Mold numbers: Stamped or incised numbers identify specific designs
- Hand-painted details: All CAS decoration was hand-applied; slight variations between identical pieces are normal and authentic
- Japanese copies: After CAS closed in 1955, molds were sent to Japan; Japanese copies are marked "Japan" and are less detailed; they are collectible but worth less
- Size and weight: Genuine CAS pieces are lightweight due to thin casting; heavy pieces may be copies or reproductions
Auction Price Ranges
| Category | Typical Range | Exceptional Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Salt and pepper shakers (common) | $15 - $50 | $150+ for rare designs |
| Salt and pepper shakers (rare) | $50 - $200 | $500+ for desirable pairs |
| Figurines (common designs) | $20 - $75 | $200+ for unusual glazes |
| Figurines (rare designs) | $75 - $300 | $800+ for one-of-a-kind pieces |
| Shelf sitters (pairs) | $30 - $100 | $300+ for rare designs |
| Head vases | $50 - $200 | $500+ for large, elaborate examples |
| Metal accessories (stands) | $15 - $50 | $100+ for unusual configurations |
Condition Factors
- Paint wear: Hand-painted details can wear, especially on high points; strong, intact paint adds significant value
- Chips: Even small chips are very visible on these smooth-surfaced figurines; chips reduce value 30-50%
- Paired pieces: Salt and pepper shakers and paired figurines must have both original mates; singles are worth a fraction of pairs
- Crazing: Fine glaze crackle; common on 1940s-1950s ceramics and generally accepted
- Metal accessories: Original wire stands and display accessories add value; their presence confirms authentic display intent
Collecting Tips
- Salt and pepper shakers are the most popular category: Hundreds of different figural pairs offer endless collecting possibilities at affordable prices
- Rare designs create the excitement: Common designs are easy to find; rare glazes, experimental pieces, and limited production designs drive collector interest
- Distinguish Madison from Japanese production: CAS pieces marked "Madison, Wisc." are more valuable than Japanese-made copies using the same molds
- Pairs and sets are essential: Many CAS designs were conceived as pairs; always try to acquire both pieces together
- Betty Harrington is the key artist: Harrington designed virtually all CAS figures; her artistic sensibility gives the line its distinctive character
- Join collector groups: CAS collectors share information through online forums and clubs that help with identification, rarity assessment, and pricing