The pieces of interest to collectors are sometimes divided into three main categories:
Stoneware
This category consists of various crocks, jugs, churns, water coolers,
kitchenware and other storage items used prior to World War II. Glass jars and mechanical
refrigeration usurped the need for many of these items. The distinctive red wing is
frequently found stamped on the exterior of these utilitarian pieces. Hundreds of
different pieces can be found, a size for almost every need.
Artware (art pottery)
Though some Red Wing pottery, mostly brushware, made before the turn of the century can be
found, major production began in the late 1930s. A variety of vases, bowls and figurines
with a multitude of glazes were produced until the closing of the pottery in 1967. Several
thousand combinations can be found.
Dinnerware
At about the same time that the artware production began in earnest the company began
manufacturing relatively inexpensive lines of dinnerware. Many different shapes were sold
over the years. Sometimes, for variety, the shape stayed the same but the pattern on the
dishes changed. Many of these patterns were hand painted. About 100 different shape/
pattern combinations can be found.