Hat Vase Appraisal

Vintage "Lady with Hat and Pearls" Head Vase

This item is a vintage ceramic or porcelain head vase depicting a stylized woman's head from the shoulders up. It measures approximately 6-8 inches in height, given the visible scale within typical display cabinet dimensions. The primary colors are a matte black for her hat and dress, a creamy white for her skin, collar, and hat band, and a vibrant red for her lips, with blush tones on her cheeks. Her hair is rendered in a light, sandy blonde or beige color, sculpted in a classic, curled style consistent with the mid-20th century. The woman wears a black hat with a wide white brim band adorned with black polka dots, and a significant white bow with black polka dots is tied at the back of her head, cascading down her left side. She has closed eyelids with dark lashes, suggesting a serene or contemplative expression. Prominent features include sculpted pearl-like drop earrings and a molded pearl-like necklace that rests above her V-neck black top with a crisp white collar. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, with smooth glazes and well-defined features, though minor surface dust is visible. The reflection on the surface below indicates it's displayed on a glass shelf. There are no readily apparent cracks, chips, or significant wear from the visible angle, suggesting good preservation for its estimated age. This style of head vase was highly popular in the 1950s and 1960s, a period often referred to as 'Mid-Century Modern' or 'Retro', making its estimated age within that range. Such pieces were often used as decorative items, sometimes holding artificial flowers or small bouquets. No specific maker's marks are visible in the provided image.