Ceramic Appraisal

Miniature Stamped Ceramic Vessel

The item is a small, cylindrical ceramic or pottery vessel, likely a miniature vase, shot glass, or small holder, held between the thumb and forefinger of a person. The primary visible surface is the unglazed bottom, showcasing a dull brownish-tan color with a slightly rough, matte texture. A distinct white band of glaze encircles the outer edge of the bottom, transitioning from the raw ceramic body to what appears to be a glazed exterior on the upper part of the vessel (though the exterior is not fully visible, it seems to have a textured or patterned surface, possibly ridged or beaded, hinted at by the edge). Centered on the unglazed bottom is a black, stamped maker's mark or signature. The mark is roundish or oval in shape and contains stylized text. While difficult to decipher entirely due to resolution, it appears to contain the letter 'S' and possibly other letters or symbols, resembling a '7AP' above and some abstract lines below a central 'S' or '19' with 'SWAN' below, implying a potential brand name or logo. The unglazed area shows some slight variations in tone, consistent with the natural material and firing process. There are no immediately obvious chips, cracks, or significant damage on the visible bottom surface, suggesting a relatively good condition. The white glazed rim appears intact and smooth. The overall impression is of a well-made, possibly handcrafted item, given the distinct unglazed base and stamped mark, typical of studio pottery or artisanal ceramics rather than mass-produced ware. The specific age is hard to determine without clearer marks or external views, but it seems to be of a modern or mid-20th-century aesthetic.