Zane: Zanesville Ohio Art Pottery by the Peters & Reed Successor

Zane Pottery Company operated in Zanesville, Ohio, from 1921 to approximately 1941, producing affordable art pottery and garden ware. The firm was established as a reorganization of the Peters & Reed Pottery Company, retaining many of the same molds, glazes, and production methods. Under the direction of Harry S. McClelland, Zane Pottery continued several Peters & Reed lines while developing new patterns and glazes. The pottery's products, while never achieving the critical acclaim of Zanesville neighbors like Roseville or Weller, offered attractive, well-made pottery at modest prices and are now collected as representative examples of Ohio's prolific pottery industry.

Identification & Marks

Zane Pottery pieces are typically marked with "ZANE WARE" or "ZANESVILLE" impressed into the base. Some pieces bear paper labels reading "Zane Ware" that are often lost. Earlier production may use Peters & Reed molds without distinguishing marks, creating attribution challenges. The pottery body is typically a dense, buff-colored earthenware. Glazes range from matte finishes in greens, blues, and browns to the distinctive "Powder Blue" line. Some pieces carry shape numbers impressed on the base. Distinguishing Zane from Peters & Reed production requires familiarity with the specific glazes and forms unique to each firm's era.

Lines & Glazes

• Powder Blue: Matte blue glaze applied to various vase and jardiniere forms; one of Zane's most distinctive lines
• Drip Glaze: Vases and bowls with contrasting dripped glaze effects over solid-color grounds
• Landsun: Continued from Peters & Reed, featuring blended matte glazes in earth tones
• Sheen: Pieces with semi-gloss glazes in green, brown, and blue
• Garden Ware: Jardinieres, pedestals, flower pots, and garden ornaments
• Kitchenware: Mixing bowls, baking dishes, and utilitarian pieces

Auction Price Ranges

Condition Factors

Examine glazes carefully for chips, flakes, and crazing. Matte glazes are particularly susceptible to surface scratches and abrasion. Jardinieres and garden ware frequently show lime deposits and water staining from use. Chips to rims and bases are common on utilitarian pieces. Hairline cracks reduce value, particularly on vases and decorative pieces. Original paper labels, when present, add value and aid identification. The buff-colored body shows conspicuously when chipped through the glaze.

Collecting Tips

Zane Pottery offers an affordable entry point into the rich field of Zanesville, Ohio, art pottery. Pieces are generally modestly priced compared to Roseville, Weller, and other prominent neighbors, making it accessible for beginning collectors. The Powder Blue line is the most distinctive and recognizable Zane production. Understanding the Peters & Reed connection is essential, as many forms and glazes bridge both companies. Complete jardiniere and pedestal sets are scarce and worth seeking out. Condition is important but the modest price range means collectors can be selective. Zane Pottery fits well within a broader collection of Zanesville pottery or Ohio pottery traditions.