Old Foley Ceramics Appraisal

James Kent Old Foley Staffordshire Pottery Vessel

This item is a vintage ceramic vessel, likely a teapot or pitcher, produced by James Kent Ltd. at the Old Foley Pottery in Staffordshire, England. The base shows several distinct manufacturing marks: a blue printed mark that reads 'Old Foley JAMES KENT LTD STAFFORDSHIRE ENGLAND,' alongside deep relief embossed lettering for 'JAMES KENT' and 'ENGLAND.' An additional numerical mark, possibly '178' or similar, is impressed near the bottom edge. The body of the piece features a rich, metallic gold-tone glaze over a white earthenware or ironstone base, decorated with a repeating geometric circle or concentric ring motif. This specific backstamp style and the bold, mid-century aesthetic suggest a production date likely between the 1950s and 1960s. The piece shows visible wear consistent with age, specifically along the unglazed foot rim where dirt accumulation and minor shelf wear are present. There is evidence of slight rubbing or patina on the metallic finish. No major cracks are visible from this angle, though fine surface crazing typical of English earthenware of this era may be present upon closer inspection. The craftsmanship reflects the mass-market quality of mid-century Staffordshire pottery, characterized by robust construction and decorative transfers.