Commemorative Pottery Appraisal

Shearwater Pottery 90th Anniversary Commemorative Plaque

This appears to be a commemorative plaque or decorative tray, crafted from polished mahogany. The overall shape is rectangular with rounded corners, presenting a smooth, curvilinear aesthetic. The central area of the mahogany surface is deeply inlaid with a mosaic of various materials, including natural shell fragments that exhibit iridescent qualities and appear to transition from cream to light brown tones, and shards of ceramic or pottery in shades of teal, turquoise, and deeper blues. These inlaid materials form an intricate border and freeform abstract shapes around the central inscription "STAND SURE". The letters forming this phrase are also inlaid, likely with small, lustrous pieces of shell or mother-of-pearl, contributing to their reflective quality. Below the inscription, a small, stylized teal-colored pitcher or vase is depicted, also rendered in inlaid material that appears to be a continuous piece rather than shards. The surface of the mahogany shows a high-gloss finish, reflecting light, and appears to be in excellent condition with no visible scratches or damage to the wood itself or the inlay work. There are no obvious manufacturing marks or signatures visible from the provided image beyond the inlaid text. Given the context, this piece celebrates the 90th Anniversary of Shearwater Pottery (1928-2018) and incorporates shards from Walter Anderson and Peter Anderson, linking it to a significant legacy in American pottery. The use of mahogany, shell, and pottery shards from noted artists suggests a piece of considerable craftsmanship and historical significance, potentially made between 1928 and 2018 by Christopher Stebley, as indicated by the provenance. The integration of different materials and the precise inlay work suggest a high level of skill and attention to detail. This item functions as a unique commemorative piece, blending artistic expression with historical reference.