Pottery Lamp Appraisal

Art Pottery Table Lamp with Heron/Crane Motif

This appears to be a small to medium-sized art pottery table lamp, possibly dating from the mid to late 20th century. The lamp features a squat, ovoid body with a gently flared base and a narrow neck. Its primary material is ceramic, likely stoneware or earthenware, evident from the unglazed terra cotta visible on the underside of the base. The exterior is adorned with a textured, mottled green-blue glaze, giving it an earthy, aged appearance. A prominent decorative motif of a stylized bird, possibly a heron or crane, is rendered in a lighter, off-white or cream-colored glaze with some hints of gold or light brown around its form, creating a striking contrast against the greenish background. The bird's design is abstract and fluid, suggesting movement. The glazes appear to be applied thickly in some areas, creating a dimensional effect, particularly with the white elements that seem to 'drip' down towards the base. The electrical cord, a light tan or beige color, is wrapped around the neck, and a brown two-prong plug is visible. The condition exhibits some wear consistent with age and use, particularly to the electrical components which may require evaluation for safety. The base reveals an unglazed terracotta surface with incised markings that resemble initials or a signature, possibly 'AP' or 'JP', indicating a potter's mark or studio signature. The craftsmanship suggests a handmade or small-batch production, given the unique artistic application of the glazes and the hand-incised mark. The overall aesthetic leans towards an Arts and Crafts or Mid-Century Modern pottery style, emphasizing natural forms and handcrafted quality. The unusual aspect is its direct use as a lamp rather than a converted vase, implying it was likely designed as such from the outset.