Weller pottery was founded in 1872 in Fultonham, Ohio, by a pioneer in art pottery, Samuel Agustus Weller. Early production was strictly utilitarian wares. In 1882, Weller moved his small company to Zanesville. Ohio, and employed 68 employees and started what art pottery historians refer to as the "First edition of the Putnam factory."By 1905, Weller was the largest pottery in the country. The pottery closed its doors 1n 1948. So, given the expanse of time, this piece is very old. Note what appears to be a small chip. This perplexes me as the spot feels smooth. Was it there when made? If so, why is there no glaze of color covering it? It is a lovely piece. No crazing or other blemishes. Weller pottery is coveted by collectors here in the US for its beauty, of course, but primarily because it was made here at "home."