The Definitive Guide to Weller Antique 107

Introduction

The Weller Antique 107 is a highly sought-after antique pottery line that has captured the hearts of collectors for decades. Characterized by its unique Art Nouveau-inspired designs and vibrant glazed finishes, the 107 line stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of the Weller Pottery Company.

History of Weller Antique 107

The Weller Pottery Company was founded in 1872 by Samuel Weller in Zanesville, Ohio. Initially known for its utilitarian pottery, Weller began experimenting with artistic and decorative ware in the early 1900s. In 1905, the company introduced the 107 line, which quickly gained popularity among pottery enthusiasts.

Design and Glazes

The Weller Antique 107 line is renowned for its intricate and stylized designs. The most prominent motif is the poppies and spiderwebs pattern, which features stylized poppy flowers and swirling spiderwebs. Other popular designs include the Larkspur, Lotus, and Morning Glory patterns.

The glaze finishes on Weller Antique 107 pieces are as varied as the designs. Common glaze colors include moss green, rust red, goldenrod, and apricot. The glazes are often layered and blended, creating a rich and lustrous effect.

Production and Popularity

The Weller Antique 107 line was produced between 1905 and 1910. During this time, it became one of the company's most popular and successful lines. The pieces were primarily marketed to middle-class homes and were often used as decorative accents in living rooms and parlors.

Collecting Weller Antique 107

The Weller Antique 107 line continues to be highly sought-after by collectors today. The pieces are highly valued for their artistic beauty, craftsmanship, and historical significance. Original Weller Antique 107 pieces can fetch thousands of dollars at auction and antique shows.

Identifying Weller Antique 107

Authentic Weller Antique 107 pieces can be identified by several key characteristics:

• The bottom of each piece is marked with the Weller 107 stamp.
• The glazes are typically thick and lustrous, with a textured surface.
• The colors are vibrant and saturated.
• The patterns are intricate and stylized.

Caring for Weller Antique 107

To maintain the value and beauty of Weller Antique 107 pieces, it is important to care for them properly. Here are some tips:

• Handle with care: The pieces are fragile and can be easily damaged if dropped or bumped.
• Clean gently: Use only mild soap and water to clean the pieces. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives.
• Dry thoroughly: After cleaning, dry the pieces thoroughly with a soft cloth.
• Store carefully: Store the pieces in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Effective Strategies for Collecting Weller Antique 107

Attend Antique Shows and Auctions: Antique shows and auctions are great places to find Weller Antique 107 pieces. However, it is important to do your research and only purchase from reputable dealers.

Join Collecting Clubs: Joining a collecting club can provide you with valuable information and access to a network of fellow collectors.

Search Online Marketplaces: Online marketplaces such as eBay and Etsy can be a convenient way to find Weller Antique 107 pieces. However, it is important to be cautious and only purchase from reputable sellers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Collecting Weller Antique 107

Purchasing Counterfeit Pieces: Unfortunately, there are many counterfeit Weller Antique 107 pieces on the market. Be sure to carefully examine the piece before purchasing to ensure that it is authentic.

Overpaying for Pieces: Weller Antique 107 pieces can be valuable, but it is important to avoid overpaying. Do your research and determine a fair market price before making a purchase.

Restoring Damaged Pieces: While it is sometimes possible to restore damaged Weller Antique 107 pieces, it is important to avoid doing so if the damage is significant. Restoration can devalue the piece and make it difficult to sell in the future.

Pros and Cons of Collecting Weller Antique 107

Pros:

• Artistic Beauty: Weller Antique 107 pieces are highly artistic and can add beauty and character to any collection.
• Historical Value: The pieces are a part of American pottery history and can provide a glimpse into the past.
• Investment Potential: Weller Antique 107 pieces can be a valuable investment, especially if they are in good condition and have desirable designs and glazes.

Cons:

• Fragility: The pieces are fragile and can be easily damaged if not handled properly.
• Expense: Original Weller Antique 107 pieces can be expensive, especially if they are rare or have desirable designs and glazes.
• Counterfeits: There are many counterfeit pieces on the market, so it is important to do your research and only purchase from reputable dealers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How can I identify an authentic Weller Antique 107 piece?
A: Authentic Weller Antique 107 pieces are marked with the Weller 107 stamp on the bottom. They also have thick, lustrous glazes with vibrant colors and intricately stylized patterns.

Q: How much are Weller Antique 107 pieces worth?
A: The value of Weller Antique 107 pieces can vary greatly depending on the design, glaze, and condition. Common pieces can sell for a few hundred dollars, while rare pieces can fetch thousands of dollars.

Q: Where can I find Weller Antique 107 pieces?
A: Weller Antique 107 pieces can be found at antique shows, auctions, and online marketplaces. It is important to do your research and only purchase from reputable dealers.

Q: How can I care for Weller Antique 107 pieces?
A: Weller Antique 107 pieces should be handled with care, cleaned with mild soap and water, and dried thoroughly. They should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Q: Can I restore damaged Weller Antique 107 pieces?
A: While it is sometimes possible to restore damaged Weller Antique 107 pieces, it is important to avoid doing so if the damage is significant. Restoration can devalue the piece and make it difficult to sell in the future.

Q: Is collecting Weller Antique 107 pieces a good investment?
A: Weller Antique 107 pieces can be a valuable investment, especially if they are in good condition and have desirable designs and glazes. However, it is important to do your research and understand the risks involved before investing.

Conclusion

The Weller Antique 107 line is a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of the Weller Pottery Company. The pieces are highly sought-after by collectors for their beauty, historical significance, and investment potential. By following the tips and advice outlined in this guide, you can successfully collect and care for Weller Antique 107 pieces.

Tables

Table 1: Common Weller Antique 107 Patterns

Table 2: Estimated Value of Weller Antique 107 Pieces

Table 3: Tips for Identifying Authentic Weller Antique 107 Pieces