Vintage Purinton Pottery 2-Cup Teapot, Open Apple Design, Circa 1941-1959, Shippenville, PA

The History of Purinton Pottery By Joelle, Class of 2004

“Purinton pottery is distinct not just because of its shapes and designs, but also because of the methods used to make it. Purinton’s production system of hollow ware was different from any other pottery in the United States. Instead of the traditional method where a special amount of slip is poured into each mold individually, a group of molds was immersed completely into a container of slip.

The free hand decorating of Purinton Pottery was probably the most important step in its production. This is where the pieces got the original decorations that collectors love today. Under the direction of Dorothy Purinton, a group from eight to ten trained artisans painted designs on the ware. These designs include Apple, Plaids, Intaglio, Maywood, Saraband, Pennsylvania Dutch and Teawood.

All procedures in the Purinton process were strictly controlled and were found after much research and experimentation. If there were errors in drying and firing times, the quality would be poor. The Purinton method produced a strong, lightweight pottery that was made to be used, not just admired. It is unique and different from any other utility or serving ware of its time.”