Incised Pottery Appraisal

Studio Pottery Bowl/Vase with Incised Maker's Mark

The item appears to be the base of a ceramic vessel, likely a bowl or vase, crafted from a light-colored, unglazed stoneware or pottery clay. The physical characteristics visible include a flat, circular base with a slightly raised foot-ring, typical of thrown pottery. The clay body itself is a light beige or off-white, exhibiting a matte, porous texture with minor rough spots and irregularities consistent with handmade craftsmanship. The most prominent feature is a deeply incised maker's mark or artist's signature, centrally located on the unglazed base. This mark consists of a stylized, abstract symbol that resembles a swirling or flowing character, possibly a monogram or an artistic rendering of a word, with clear, deliberate lines. The blue-purple, possibly reactive, glaze is visible along the rim of the foot-ring, suggesting the visible portion is indeed the underside of a glazed object. The glaze shows a mottled, variegated pattern with splashes of dark blue, lighter blue, and hints of purplish-red, indicating a unique firing process, possibly a high-fire or crystalline glaze. The condition appears good, with no visible chips, cracks, or significant wear on the unglazed base, aside from minor dust or surface residue. The quality indicators suggest a handmade, artisanal piece, with the distinct potter's mark confirming its origin from a specific artist or studio. The style period is difficult to ascertain precisely without more context, but the visible mark and glazing technique point towards contemporary studio pottery. The craftsmanship is evident in the precise execution of the foot-ring and the clear, intentional nature of the incised mark, showcasing the skill of the potter.