Newcomb Pottery

A Brief History

Newcomb College (now part of Tulane University - New Orleans, Louisiana) was formed in 1886 expressly to instruct young southern women in the discipline of liberal arts.  In 1895 the school began selling pieces of art pottery developed and painted by instructors and students.  Many notable artisans / craftsmen became members of the colleges pottery program, including George Ohr for a short period.  Over the years, the works grew in popularity, and they won many awards.  By 1940, the arts and crafts style had fallen out of popular favor and the school shifted it's focus to utilitarian pieces like cups, plates and pitchers.  The new direction, called the Newcomb Guild Program, didn't cause much excitement and operations ceased for good in 1952.   

Examples of Work

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console-bowlgray-platejar-blue-palmmeyer-newcombmoon-mossnewcomb-markred-vasegreen-plate

General Information and Websites

It has been told that in the 1940's, when remodeling of the art pottery department at Newcomb College were taking place, workers ignorant of the importance of the remaining pottery pieces, tossed them from the second story window to make room for their equipment and renovations.  (I shudder to think of the number of beautiful pieces that were lost and how valuable that they might be today.)  Its been estimated that during their years of operation, students and faculty were responsible for creating approximately 70 thousand pieces of pottery.  I suggest that if you come across one cheaply, don't hesitate to purchase it as the value will only continue to grow in the future.

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Tulane University

Louisiana State Museums

PBS

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