When it comes to pottery, there are many different markings and symbols that can be found on the surface. Some of these symbols are used to identify the maker of the piece, while others are used to indicate the type of clay or glaze that was used. One such symbol that is often found on pottery is the letters WCL. In this article, we will explore what WCL means on pottery.

WCL is an acronym that stands for West Coast Lumber. This marking was used by a company in Washington State that produced wooden shipping crates for pottery companies. The WCL mark was stamped onto the wooden crates that held the pottery during shipping. This allowed the pottery companies to easily identify their shipments and ensure that they were receiving the correct orders.

Over time, the WCL mark became associated with the pottery that was shipped in these crates. Collectors and enthusiasts began to recognize the mark as a sign of quality and authenticity. Today, pottery that bears the WCL mark is highly sought after by collectors and is considered to be a valuable piece of history.

The WCL mark is typically found on pottery that was produced in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. This region is known for its rich clay deposits, which have been used to produce pottery for centuries. The WCL mark is often found on pottery that was produced by companies such as Bauer Pottery, Pacific Pottery, and Gladding McBean.

One of the reasons why the WCL mark is so highly valued by collectors is because it indicates that the piece is an authentic vintage piece. Pottery that was produced in the Pacific Northwest during the early to mid-20th century is highly sought after by collectors due to its unique style and craftsmanship. The WCL mark serves as a way to identify these vintage pieces and distinguish them from more recent reproductions.

Another reason why the WCL mark is so highly valued is because it indicates that the piece was shipped in a wooden crate. Wooden shipping crates were commonly used during the early to mid-20th century to transport pottery from the Pacific Northwest to other parts of the country. These crates were often stamped with the WCL mark, which served as a way to identify the pottery inside. Today, the wooden crates themselves are highly valued by collectors and are considered to be a valuable piece of history.

In addition to the WCL mark, there are many other markings and symbols that can be found on pottery. These markings can provide valuable information about the piece, such as the name of the maker, the type of clay or glaze that was used, and the date of production. Some markings are more common than others, and some are specific to certain regions or time periods.

For example, pottery that was produced in the Arts and Crafts style during the early 20th century often bears the mark of the maker. This was a time when individual artists and craftsmen were highly valued for their unique style and craftsmanship. Pottery that was produced during this time period is highly sought after by collectors and is considered to be a valuable piece of history.

Similarly, pottery that was produced in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868) often bears the mark of the maker. This was a time when pottery was highly valued and was produced by skilled craftsmen. Pottery that was produced during this time period is highly sought after by collectors and is considered to be a valuable piece of history.

The WCL mark on pottery is a symbol of quality and authenticity. It indicates that the piece was shipped in a wooden crate and is an authentic vintage piece. Pottery that bears the WCL mark is highly valued by collectors and is considered to be a valuable piece of history. While there are many other markings and symbols that can be found on pottery, the WCL mark is one of the most recognizable and highly valued.