Clay Pitcher Appraisal

Mexican Earthenware Scalloped Pitcher

This is a small, handcrafted earthenware pitcher, likely of Mexican origin, given the style and common pottery production in the region. It stands approximately 4 inches high and is about 5 inches long, offering a compact and functional size for serving sauces, cream, or other liquids. The primary color of the exterior is a muted, earthy olive green or light chartreuse, suggesting a natural pigment often found in traditional pottery. The interior of the pitcher reveals a contrasting vibrant orange or terracotta hue. A distinctive feature is its scalloped rim, which adds a decorative, undulating edge to the opening, rather than a smooth, straight line. A sturdy, C-shaped handle, colored in the same olive green as the exterior, is attached to one side. The base is slightly flared for stability. Ornamental hand-painted designs in black, yellow, and possibly blue or gray depict what appear to be cartoonish saguaro cacti and other desert flora, reinforcing the probable Mexican or Southwestern aesthetic. The paintwork has a somewhat naive or folk-art quality, characteristic of earthenware. Small areas of white or lighter paint around the handle suggest either wear or inconsistencies in the glazing process. The overall condition appears good with no obvious chips or cracks visible from the provided image, but closer inspection would be required to determine the extent of any wear, crazing in the glaze, or minor manufacturing imperfections. The materials are consistent with traditional earthenware, which is typically fired at lower temperatures compared to stoneware or porcelain, resulting in a slightly coarser, more porous body, often coated with a lead or lead-free glaze. The craftsmanship indicates a handmade item, possibly from the mid-20th century to contemporary, reflecting a blend of utility and decorative folk-art style.