Haeger Collector

Category: Haeger

  • Collecting Strategies and Tips

    Collecting Strategies and Tips

    Collecting Haeger pottery requires attention to detail and strategic focus. Here are comprehensive tips:

    • Identification and Marks:
      • Look for embossed marks like “HAEGER” over a letter code and number, often with “U.S.A.” and sometimes a © at the bottom. “ROYAL HAEGER” over an “R” number is common for Hickman’s designs. Paper labels may feature a crown with “Royal Haeger” and “DUNDEE, ILLINOIS” (WorthPoint, n.d.).
      • Numbers on pieces, such as RO1 for early Royal Haeger items, help date and identify designs. The Studio Haeger line (1947–1948) by Helen Conover uses “S” prefixes, while Royal Garden Flower-ware is numbered RG-1 through RG-198 (WorthPoint, n.d.).
    • Undervalued Periods:
      • Pre-Hickman era pieces, especially those designed for the Arts & Crafts market, are often undervalued. These early designs, from the 1910s to 1930s, feature bronze green glazes similar to Fulper’s, offering great value for collectors (Wisconsin Pottery Association, 2019).
    • Notable Collectibles:
      • Black Panther Figurine: First produced in 1941, available in 18″, 24″, and 26″ sizes, this piece is highly collectible, with values often exceeding $200, especially in mid-century modern collections (LoveToKnow, 2023; Wisconsin Pottery Association, 2019).
      • TV Lamps: 1950s designs are a strong niche, with 1960s and 1970s examples also gaining interest, often found at estate sales or flea markets (Encyclopedia.com, 2020).
      • Larger Animal Sculptures and Mid-Century Modern Pieces: Items like the matador and bull set, which sold for $250 online, and larger vases are worth focusing on, as size often correlates with value (LoveToKnow, 2023).
    • Glazes and Dating:
      • Glazes can indicate production periods; for example, certain glazes were exclusive to the 1930s or 1940s. Cross-reference with catalogs or glaze libraries for accuracy, as some pieces were reintroduced decades later (Haegerlicious, n.d.).
    • Value and Market Trends:
      • Haeger pottery values are hit or miss, with most pieces selling for under $100, like a ribbed planter at $18 on eBay, but iconic pieces can fetch higher prices, such as a mid-century panther statue at $197.25 (LoveToKnow, 2023). Early 1900s items, often unmarked or with lost paper labels, can be found inexpensively at estate sales, identifiable by distinctive colors and finishes (Encyclopedia.com, 2020).
    • Where to Find:
      • Look at online marketplaces like Etsy, where popular items include Haeger pottery planters and vases, often with included shipping (Etsy, n.d.). Large collections, like a 2,500-piece private collection in Montana, are occasionally available for sale (Kelly’s Collectibles, 2021).

    Collecting Haeger pottery is a journey into American art pottery history, offering a blend of historical significance, artistic innovation, and community engagement. By focusing on identification, undervalued periods, and notable collectibles, enthusiasts can build collections that appreciate in value and celebrate Haeger’s legacy. With resources like books, online communities, and expert networks, collectors have ample support to explore this fascinating field, ensuring a rewarding experience for both novices and seasoned specialists.

    Key Citations

  • Resources for Collectors and Specialists

    Resources for Collectors and Specialists

    For those seeking to deepen their knowledge, a wealth of resources is available:

    • Books: The following books are invaluable for identification and pricing:
    Book TitleDetails
    Collecting Royal Haeger by Lee Garmon and Doris FrizzellUseful for catalog page reproductions, focusing on 1930s–1940s designs
    The House of Haeger [1914-1944], The Revitalization of American Art PotteryDetailed history of early artware development
    The Haeger Glazes, The Ed Blas CollectionFocuses on glaze techniques, essential for dating and identification
    The Revitalization of American Art PotteryDetailed history of early artware development
    The House of Haeger [1944-1969], The Post War EraCovers post-war designs and innovations These books, available through online retailers or specialty bookstores, provide detailed insights into Haeger’s production (Haegerlicious, n.d.; Wisconsin Pottery Association, 2019).
    Haeger Potteries Through the Years: A Price Guideby David Dilley Comprehensive guide published by L-W Books, covering production history
    • Online Communities:
      • Royal Haeger Collectors Group on Facebook (Royal Haeger Collectors Group): A dedicated community of enthusiasts who have compiled over 90% of Haeger’s catalogs and established a comprehensive glaze library. They are committed to helping collectors identify and date pieces, sharing extensive knowledge and resources (Haegerlicious, n.d.).
      • Discussion group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/haegerpotterycollectors/ for additional networking (Wisconsin Pottery Association, 2019).
    • Websites and Exhibits:
      • Wisconsin Pottery Association: https://wisconsinpottery.org/haeger-potteries/ includes articles and exhibit histories, such as the 1998 show “Haeger-The Early And The Extraordinary” on August 22, 1998 (Wisconsin Pottery Association, 2019).
      • Haegerlicious: https://www.haegerlicious.com/ provides resources and tips for collectors, emphasizing repurposing vintage pieces for modern decor.

    Specialists and Expert Networks

    For expert guidance, collectors can engage with the following:

    • Royal Haeger Collectors Group (Facebook): This community is a hub for specialists, with members dedicated to gathering and sharing Haeger’s catalogs and glaze libraries. They offer advice on identification, dating, and valuation, making it an essential resource for serious collectors (Haegerlicious, n.d.).
    • Authors and Experts:
      • Lee Garmon and Doris Frizzell: Authors of “Collecting Royal Haeger,” recognized authorities on Haeger’s art deco period, providing detailed catalog reproductions for identification.
      • David Dilley: Author of “Haeger Potteries Through the Years: A Price Guide,” a definitive reference for pricing and historical context.
      • Ed Blas: Known for “The Haeger Glazes, The Ed Blas Collection,” offering in-depth analysis of glaze techniques for dating and authentication (Haegerlicious, n.d.).

    These specialists and resources ensure collectors have access to authoritative information, enhancing their ability to build and value their collections.

  • Guide to Collecting Haeger Pottery

    Guide to Collecting Haeger Pottery

    Haeger Potteries, established in 1852 in Dundee, Illinois, is a significant chapter in American pottery history, evolving from a brickyard to a leading manufacturer of art pottery. Known for its distinctive glazes, innovative designs, and historical significance, Haeger pottery has become a favorite among collectors since the company ceased production in 2016. This survey note provides a detailed exploration of Haeger’s history, key designers, types of pottery, collecting strategies, and resources for specialists, ensuring a thorough understanding for enthusiasts and experts alike.

    Historical Overview

    Haeger Potteries began as a brickyard, utilizing clay from the Fox River, and was founded by David H. Haeger, a German immigrant who became sole owner in 1871. The company gained prominence after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, supplying bricks for reconstruction efforts. By the 1920s, Haeger had expanded into teaware, luncheonware, crystal, and glassware, marking its transition to broader ceramic production. A pivotal moment came in 1914 when J. Martin Stangl, a ceramic engineer from Fulper Pottery, was hired to develop artware. The first piece, a classic Greek vase nicknamed “Adam,” was produced in 1914, followed by “Eve” in 1915, both featuring a lustrous ebony glaze that became a hallmark (Wikipedia, 2006; Wisconsin Pottery Association, 2019).

    In 1934, Royal Arden Hickman joined Haeger, introducing the “Royal Haeger” line, which emphasized art deco and mid-century modern styles. Hickman’s designs, including the iconic black panther figurine first produced in 1941, became emblematic of Haeger’s artistic output. This figurine, available in three sizes (18″, 24″, 26″), gained popularity, particularly in Black households during the 1980s and 1990s, and was recently featured in Kendrick Lamar’s 2024 “Squabble Up” video, highlighting its cultural resonance (Wikipedia, 2006). The company continued to innovate, introducing TV lamps in the 1950s to reduce glare from early television screens, a niche now popular among collectors (Crafts Hero, 2022). Haeger announced its closure in May 2016, ending a 145-year legacy, with its original plant in the Dundee Township Historic District and a former plant in Macomb, Illinois, demolished (Wikipedia, 2006).

    Key Designers and Their Contributions

    Haeger’s artistic evolution was shaped by several key designers, each leaving a distinct mark:

    • J. Martin Stangl (1914–1920): Hired to develop artware, Stangl brought experience from Fulper Pottery, creating early pieces like the “Adam” and “Eve” vases. His work established Haeger’s reputation for quality glazes and forms, using lighter clay bodies and high-gloss, low-fire glazes compared to competitors like Red Wing and Hull (Wisconsin Pottery Association, 2019).
    • Royal Arden Hickman (1934–1944, Freelance Post-1950s): As chief designer, Hickman introduced the “Royal Haeger” line, marked with “Royal Haeger by Royal Hickman U.S.A. R-###.” His designs, including the black panther figurine, are highly collectible, with the panther first produced in 1941 and copied by over 30 other potteries. Hickman’s art deco styles remain a collector favorite, and his later freelance work in the 1950s continued to influence Haeger (Wikipedia, 2006; Wisconsin Pottery Association, 2019).
    • Eric Olson (1947–1972): Succeeding Hickman, Olson served as chief designer, contributing to post-war designs and maintaining Haeger’s artistic direction.
    • Sascha Brastoff (1971): Known for his work with other pottery companies, Brastoff designed the Esplanade and Roman Bronze lines for Haeger, adding to its diverse portfolio.
    • Elsa Ken Haeger (1954–1963): Designed the Royal Garden Flower-ware line, produced from 1954 to 1963, featuring floral motifs and numbered RG-1 through RG-198, with lower numbers indicating earlier examples (Wisconsin Pottery Association, 2019; WorthPoint, n.d.).

    These designers’ contributions highlight Haeger’s versatility, from early Arts & Crafts influences to mid-century modern aesthetics.

    Types of Pottery Produced

    Haeger’s production spanned a wide range, reflecting its evolution:

    • Early Products: Initially focused on bricks, tiles, and flower pots, Haeger’s early output catered to industrial and horticultural needs.
    • Artware: The company’s artware, including vases, figurines, lamps, and decorative pieces, became its hallmark. The “Royal Haeger” line (1934–1944) featured art deco designs, while later lines like Royal Garden Flower-ware (1954–1963) emphasized floral themes. Other forms include cachepots, jardinieres, desk lamps, and lady head vases (WorthPoint, n.d.).
    • TV Lamps: Introduced in the 1950s, these lamps were designed to reduce television glare, becoming a popular collecting niche, especially from the 1960s and 1970s, now drawing interest from collectors (Crafts Hero, 2022; Encyclopedia.com, 2020).
    • Souvenir Pottery: At the 1934 Century of Progress Exposition in Chicago, Haeger featured a working ceramic factory, producing souvenir pottery, adding to its collectible appeal (Wikipedia, 2006).

    Haeger’s use of lighter clay bodies and high-gloss glazes, while less expensive than competitors, ensured modeling and glaze quality of great invention and skill, particularly in vases and figurals (Wisconsin Pottery Association, 2019).

    Key Citations