Rookwood, Weller, Grueby and Roseville---art pottery is the focus of a convention in Ohio this week. The American Art Pottery Association event attracts die-hard collectors who will be gathering for a 350-lot auction and two-day sale with 45 dealers.

Even with the credit crisis-era depressing some antiques prices, interest remains high in the art pottery category. Memories are fresh of an early 20th-century Santa Barbara art pottery vase by studio potter Frederick Rhead which fetched a world record price of $516,000 just two years ago.

A renowned collection of Rookwood pottery will also be available to buy at Bonhams & Butterfields in Los Angeles today. The estate of L.A. philanthropist Nancy M. Daly at auction includes prime examples of Rookwood, as well as Wedgwood fairy lustre, American paintings, and Arts and Crafts pieces.