Definition of Earthenware

Earthenware is one of the earliest methods for the manufacture of dishes and dinnerware that is very similar to the dinnerware and decorative pieces that we still manufacture today. It is fascinating that people knew how to mold and glaze clays and mud as early as the 10th century B.C. as is demonstrated in various museums.  

What Earthenware Is Made Of

Earthenware is comprised of a specific mixture of ball clay, quartz, feldspar and kaolin clay. This combination makes a soft material that is easily molded and inexpensive as compared to china and porcelain. The disadvantages of using earthenware clay are that it chips easily and is porous enough to require glazing to hold liquids.

Colors of Earthenware

Red earthenware is common, but there are also earthenware items in buff and white. The latter were glazed with many colors. Early American red earthenware is highly prized and sought after in the antique collector community.

Types of Earthenware

At least one common types of earthenware is quite familiar to us. You should recognize the first of the following:

• Terra Cotta - Everyone recognizes the reddish color of terra cotta planters, which is the common use today along with terra cotta tile roofs.


• Creamware - This one is actually a refined form of earthenware that was popular from 1750 to the 1840s. It was cheaper than imported porcelain.


• Tin-Glazed Pottery - The "Tin" is actually not deceiving: Tin oxides are used in the glaze for this earthenware, which was created as early as the 9th century. These pieces are exceptionally beautiful.


• Raku - You likely won't see any of this because it was all hand molded and had a special firing process. It was primarily used to make crude tea bowls in Japan.