How to identify Crown Lynn, Temuka and other New Zealand pottery

Step by step

1. 1

   Step 1: Turn it over

   Most factory pottery has a printed, stamped or impressed mark on the base. Photograph it in good light. Impressed numbers are often shape numbers, not dates.

2. 2

   Step 2: Crown Lynn

   Made in New Lynn, Auckland, from 1948 until the factory closed in 1989. It grew out of Amalgamated Brick and Pipe, whose earlier Ambrico ware is also collected. Look for the Crown Lynn name, often with a swan in the mark. Popular collectables include the swan vases, Jasonware and the Mexicana pattern.

3. 3

   Step 3: Temuka

   Temuka Pottery in South Canterbury made tough stoneware, best known for its speckled brown, green and blue dinnerware from the 1970s and 80s. Marks usually say Temuka New Zealand.

4. 4

   Step 4: Titian Studio

   An Auckland studio pottery known for bold glazes and vases from the 1960s and 70s. Marks often read Titian Studio NZ.

5. 5

   Step 5: Studio pottery

   Hand made pieces by individual potters usually have an incised signature, initials or a small stamped seal. These can be very valuable, so research the mark before pricing.

6. 6

   Step 6: Check condition

   Look for chips, hairline cracks, crazing and restoration before you price. Condition makes a big difference.

7. 7

   Step 7: Ask the community

   Post clear photos of the piece and the base in the identification forum. Te Toi Uku, the Crown Lynn and Clayworks Museum in New Lynn, is also a great place to learn more.