Ceramic Figurine Base Appraisal

Ceramic Figurine Base

The item appears to be the base of a ceramic or porcelain figurine, possibly part of a larger decorative piece. It is primarily white, likely glazed, with a slightly textured or unrefined edge around the perimeter of the base, suggesting it might be the bottom of a hollow form. The central portion of the base, which is concave, is smooth and finished with a glossy white glaze. The visible markings on the base provide critical information: '©1983' indicating its manufacturing year, and 'Goody Laptov' which is likely the artist's or designer's name. Below this, the word 'JAPAN' is clearly visible, identifying the country of origin. There is also a partial number '0314' which could be a model, series, or production code. A red and gold foil sticker, partially visible, is affixed to the base, which reads 'Whitton' or 'Wilton' at the top, followed by 'HOUSEWARES' and 'MADE IN CHINA' (though this contradicts the etched 'JAPAN'). This discrepancy, a sticker claiming 'Made in China' on an item etched with 'JAPAN', is a notable aspect that could indicate a marketing decision, a re-labeling, or perhaps that the sticker is not original to the item or represents a different part of the supply chain. The overall condition seems good, with no obvious cracks or chips discernible from the provided image, though the unglazed rim shows some slight dirt or residue from handling or display. The craftsmanship appears to be standard for mass-produced ceramic items of its era. This base likely belongs to a decorative object from the 1980s.