Pewabic Pottery

Founded in 1903 by Mary Chase Perry Stratton and Horace J. Caulkins, Pewabic Pottery is a studio for the design and production of custom architectural tile and vessels and a center for the advancement of the ceramic arts. Stratton and Caulkins' work at Pewabic and their involvement with the Society for Arts and Crafts, Cranbrook Academy of Art and the Detroit Institue of Arts made a substantial contribution to the Arts and Crafts movement in Detroit. Pewabic has earned a national reputation for its tile commissions and unique glazes - particularly the iridescent formulas - which can be seen in homes and institutions throughout the country. Important early installations include the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conceptionin Washington, D.C.; Christ Church Cranbrook; and the Guardian Building, Holy Redeemer Church, and St. Paul's Cathedral in Detroit. Pewabic is also represented in many museums and private collections.

In 1981, the non-profit Pewabic Society, Inc. was formed to preserve the Pottery, which is recognized as a National Historic Landmark. It is funded today by public and private contributions and memberships in addition to sales. The Society carries on the tradition established by Pewabic's founders and continues to develop the Pottery as a center for the growth and support of the ceramic arts. The 1907 Tudor Revival building is open to the public, and visitors will see much of the original equipment as well as a collection of early Pewabic pieces from the Pottery's archives.

Because each vase is made by hand, some variation in height, width, and form is expected, making each piece unique. The mark of the Pewabic artisan is stamped on the bottom, as well as Pewabic's logo featuring the year of production.

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