Art Pottery Pitcher Appraisal

Art Nouveau Style Pottery Pitcher

The item is a ceramic pitcher, possibly earthenware or stoneware, featuring an Art Nouveau aesthetic. It has a rounded, somewhat bulbous body with a distinct spout and a gracefully curved handle, which appears to be a rich, deep blue. The exterior surface of the pitcher is decorated with an intricate floral or botanical pattern, predominantly in shades of blue against a background that transitions from a creamy white to a mottled, earthy brown or caramel color. There are elements of the design that suggest flora, possibly leaves and branches, swirling organically around the body of the pitcher. The glazing is likely high gloss, giving it a somewhat reflective quality, though the specific texture isn't perfectly clear. The base of the pitcher is left unglazed on the foot rim, revealing the natural ceramic material, and is slightly concave, indicating careful construction. A clear manufacturer's mark, a blue stamp in the shape of a crest or shield, is visible on the underside of the base. Additionally, there are hand-painted or inscribed numbers 'A 1147' in blue near the manufacturer's mark, which could indicate a model number, batch number, or decorator's mark. The condition appears good from the visible angles, with no obvious chips or cracks, although the age suggests there might be some minor wear or crazing consistent with its style period. The overall craftsmanship suggests a mass-produced item from a reputable pottery, likely dating from the late 19th to early 20th century, given the Art Nouveau influences and the style of the mark.