Why are these vases so expensive?

The market sets the prices on used and vintage vases. To stay competitive, we refer to our library of publications and price guides. We constantly view online auctions…like eBay, online stores…like Etsy, estate sales, antique shops and many other outlets for selling collectibles. In comparing other potteries from the vintage era, we realized something. Red Wing Art Pottery has value and potential to increase in value.

Red Wing vases seem much lower in price than other vintage pottery brands, why is that?

In our opinion it is supply and demand. Red Wing Art Pottery, Inc. produced art pottery for the mass market at affordable prices. Over four decades, RWAP produced over 1,900 different shapes of Art Pottery. Wholesale pricing was comparatively low. In 1931, a top of the line vase from Red Wing had a wholesale price of $4.00. In 1930, Americaś premier art pottery manufacturer-Rookwood Pottery, Inc. of Cinncinnati retailed a single piece for $100. (drawn from Red Wing Art Pottery Book Two, by Ray Reiss).

Does a cheaper price make a vase worth less?

For now you can take advantage of lower prices on Vintage Vases by Red Wing. How? Simply buy now and wait, (maybe 5, 10 or 15 years) a lot of these vases were made in 1929-1933 and soon will become antiques at the age of 100 years. If they are of good value, their status as antiques should appreciate their prices. Also, the supply is constantly reducing due to breakage and loss. And, there is no one making them anymore.

What do you consider damage?

Damage is a chip, crack, or hairline fracture that happened after glazing was complete.

Since the molding, finishing, and glazing processes were all basically done by hand, imperfections should be expected. For example, the base of a vase may have a chip that was glazed over and fired. That is an imperfection, not damage, since it occurred at the pottery.

Since Red Wing vases are all used, and in used condition, our customers can expect to see imperfections or signs of use. A visible sign of imperfection can occur during normal use. A 50 year old vase may have stains on the interior glaze that have come from water, soil, or other substances held in the vase during use. Since only the Buyer can accept imperfections, the Buyer should examine photos or ask questions before purchasing a vase with visible imperfections.