Eye Candy: Strawser Auction Group’s Two Day Fiestaware Event

Since its introduction in 1936, Fiestaware – made by the Homer Laughlin China Company of Newell, WV – has been a staple across American kitchens and dining rooms. Inspired by classic Art Deco forms, Fiestaware is famous for its signature, bold coloration and subtle, concentric ring decoration. Strawser Auction Group of Wolcottville, IN is presenting its two day Fiestaware sale on March 13th and 14th, 2026. The first day of this sale includes 271 lots of Fiestaware made from 1986 onward. The second day features 444 lots of prewar, vintage, and rare Fiesta prototypes. Here are several exciting finds from both days that are certain to catch the eye of collectors worldwide. 

The overall top lot in this auction is #660, a cobalt blue hot water pot. It holds a presale estimate of $4,000-6,000. This lidded example, one of two extant, is 7″ tall. It has a semisquare handle and is decorated with concentric rings around its top rim and lid. The other known example of this cobalt prototype is located at the Fiesta Museum in Newell, WV. On March 11, 2023, Strawser Auction Group sold lot #679, a somewhat similar, orange-hued Fiesta experimental hot water pot and matching trivet for $6,150 on a $4,000-6,000 presale estimate. 

The Fiesta Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in vintage to modern Fiestaware production. Located on the company’s factory campus, the museum presents more than a century and a half of pottery made by the Fiesta Tableware Company – including absolute rarities, samples, and prototypes. The visitor’s experience can also include a docent lead factory tour and shopping at the company’s large, retail factory outlet. 

Rare mugs and cups are well represented in this highly anticipated event. Lot #538, an experimental red tumbler offered on day 2, is estimated at $2,000-3,000. The midsection of this tapered, handled vessel is detailed with concentric rings.  This example is featured in the 9th edition of the Collector’s Encyclopedia of Fiesta on page 153.

The Collector’s Encyclopedia of Fiesta, considered by many as the gold standard Fiestaware reference book, is authored by Bob and Sharon Huxford. The Huxfords began publishing Fiestaware related materials starting in the mid-1970s. Their encyclopedia is now in its 10th edition, presents over 1,000 color photos, and includes identification and valuation information on Homer Laughlin’s Fiesta, Harlequin, Riviera, and Kitchen Kraft lines from the 1930s onward. 

This sale also includes fine selections of serving pitchers and carafes. Lot #493, a rose ebony glazed carafe offered on day 2, is estimated at $1,500-2,000. Its handled design features a rounded body, footed base, and a shapely neck and lip. This carafe is believed to be the only one extant. 

The color “rose ebony” was developed in the mid-1930s and was one of the hues proposed as part of the company’s 1936 launch debut. It never went into production. As such, any authentic examples of this glaze are considered remarkably rare, most likely one of a kinds or prototypes. On March 21, 2020, Strawser Auction Group sold lot #463, a pair of rose ebony candle holders, for $24,600 on a $6,000-9,000 presale estimate. 

Unusual decorative items are another premier category in this sale. Lot #165, a pair of Fiesta Post 86 pyramid candle holders, is estimated at $200-300. These Art-Deco inspired, lilac glazed pair are presented on day one of the sale. They have a four sided, tapered presentation. Each is designed to hold a single taper candle.   

Many collectors consider lilac to be one of the most desirable post 1986 color finishes, given its remarkably short appearance in the line. Over 40 different items were made in lilac from 1993 to 1995, with these pyramid candle holders being amongst the rarest. On November 7, 2025, Strawser Auction Group sold lot #212, a pair of lilac pyramid candle holders, for $682 on a $200-300 presale estimate.

Goblets, signage, vases, serving pieces, bowls, utensils, and other colorful rarities round out this two day Fiestaware celebration. Lot #163, a Fiesta Post 86 shelf sign available on day 1 of the sale, is estimated at $100-150. This periwinkle, self-standing example is mistakenly labeled as turquoise. The front is decorated with the company’s name and dancing girl logo, address, and a small faux plate with the company’s concentric ring decoration. The back features a brief written history of the company and additional contact information. 

How has Fiestaware sold in past March sales at Strawser? Check out this article from 2024 to learn more.  For more information on Strawser Auction Group’s 2026 two day early spring Fiesta Auction, please see the company’s website at https://www.strawserauctions.com.

Captions, all images from Strawser Auction Group:

• Lot #660, a prototype cobalt blue hot water pot, is estimated at $4,000-6,000.  
• Lot #538, a prototype red tumbler, is estimated at $2,000-3,000.  
• Lot #493, a prototype rose ebony glazed carafe, is estimated at $1,500-2,000.  
• Lot #165, a pair of Fiesta Post 86 pyramid candle holders, is estimated at $200-300.  
• Lot #163, a Fiesta Post 86 shelf sign, is estimated at $100-150.