Emil Milan played a role in the early development of Pottery Barn and was featured in the company’s first print catalog. He also lectured and did woodworking demonstrations at the first Pottery Barn store in West Chelsea, Manhattan.
EXCERPT #1 FROM EMIL MILAN: MIDCENTURY MASTER:
Visibility provided by New Jersey Designer Craftsmen shows may have contributed to Emil selling his functional sculptures through Pottery Barn. Founded by brothers Morris and Paul Secon, the first Pottery Barn store opened in New York City in 1949. They rapidly developed a network of craft professionals including Emil to supply handmade items to their burgeoning business. Pottery Barn played a key role in supporting the rising studio craft movement in America by encouraging customers to buy handmade functional and artistic works. The Pottery Barn founders were also visionary pioneers in educating the public about architecture, design, and fine craft through free exhibits and lectures. The 1955-56 Pottery Barn catalog, for example, features Emil along with other leading artists, designers, and makers such as renowned lecturer and author Edgar Kaufmann, Jr.; noted interior designer Paul McCobb; fine china expert Louise Steckel; outstanding photographer Raymond Jacobs; and many others in public talks, exhibits, and demonstrations.
A history of Pottery Barn from a brochure in the mid 1950s.
Emil Milan in the 1950’s Pottery Barn brochure.