If you are interested in buying East German pottery, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, it is important to understand the history of East German pottery and the context in which it was produced. East German pottery refers to ceramics produced in the German Democratic Republic (GDR), also known as East Germany, from 1949 to 1990. During this period, East Germany was a socialist state under Soviet control, and the ceramics produced there were heavily influenced by this political and cultural context.
Many of the ceramics produced in East Germany were functional and utilitarian in nature, with a focus on practicality rather than aesthetics. However, this does not mean that East German pottery was lacking in beauty or craftsmanship; in fact, many of the ceramics produced in East Germany were highly regarded for their quality and attention to detail.
When shopping for East German pottery, it is important to consider the condition of the piece. East German ceramics can be quite old, and it is not uncommon to find pieces that have been well-used or have sustained damage over time. If you are looking for pieces in mint condition, you may have a harder time finding them and may have to pay a premium price. On the other hand, if you are willing to consider pieces that are in less than perfect condition, you may be able to find some bargains.
Another factor to consider when buying East German pottery is authenticity. There are many reproductions and knock-offs of East German ceramics on the market, and it can be difficult to distinguish the genuine articles from the fakes. One way to increase your chances of getting an authentic piece is to buy from a reputable dealer or collector who has a track record of selling genuine East German pottery. You can also look for pieces that have markings or stamps on the bottom that indicate that they were produced in East Germany.
One of the best ways to find East German pottery is to shop at antique stores, flea markets, and online marketplaces such as eBay and Etsy. These places often have a wide selection of East German ceramics available, and you can often find pieces at reasonable prices. If you are looking for specific types of East German pottery, such as figurines or vases, you may have to do some digging to find them, but with a little patience, you should be able to find what you are looking for.
In conclusion, if you are interested in buying East German pottery, it is important to consider the condition of the piece, the authenticity of the piece, and the source from which you are buying it. With a little bit of research and some patience, you should be able to find some beautiful and unique pieces of East German pottery to add to your collection.
At the House of Antiques Ilkeston we have a wide selection of East German pottery in room 1.
