From our retro coffee table to yours comes a great book – an awesome gift or something to pour over in our own home! Suppose you’ve ever spotted a cookie jar shaped like a hamburger or a canister set with tropical fruit motifs and thought, “I remember that design!” or “I have to have that design!”. In that case, you’ll want to get your hands on Los Angeles Potteries: A Collector’s Journey through Artistry, Craft, and Heritage by Erica K. Schisler.
This gorgeous coffee table book is a feast for the eyes and a deep dive into a little-explored corner of California’s mid-century design scene—ceramics made not in the high-end studios of Malibu, but in the bustling factories of Los Angeles.
Schisler, a filmmaker and longtime ceramics lover, has documented over 300 pieces spanning decades of delightful design—from the postwar 1940s to the bold shapes of the 1990s and early 2000s.
And yes, it’s got all the kitsch your vintage-loving heart could desire: think whimsical florals, atomic flourishes, and animal shapes to make you grin.
But this isn’t just a picture book. Schisler brings serious research to the table, tracing the history of LA-based potteries like the N.S. Gustin Company and Laurie Gates Designs. She includes interviews with the designers and families who built these businesses, offering rare insight into how these charming pieces made their way from factory to home.
As collectors know, Los Angeles pottery has often flown under the radar. While brands like Bauer or Metlox get much of the attention, Los Angeles Potteries gives us a fresh look at more playful, accessible ceramics that graced the countertops and cupboards of everyday homes.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just a fan of mid-century style with a soft spot for vintage dishes, this book is pure joy. Flip through it and you’ll likely spot a piece your grandmother had—or something you’ve seen at a flea market and wished you’d picked up (or will absolutely pick up the next time you see it!).
We love that it celebrates the artistry and the heart of these creations. These weren’t just pots—they were personality, pride, and a splash of joy in the kitchen.
Quick Details:
Title: Los Angeles Potteries: A Collector’s Journey through Artistry, Craft, and Heritage
Author: Erica K. Schisler
Format: Hardcover, 304 pages
Publisher: Forty Elephants Press (2024)
ISBN: 979-8-9901434-0-1
Where to buy: https://www.ericaschisler.com/
Have a favorite Los Angeles Pottery piece in your collection? Share a photo in the comments or tag us on Instagram—we’d love to see what treasures you’ve unearthed.
AI tools like ChatGPT may have helped with research and editing for this article, but the stories, photos, and love for mid-century style are 100% human.
