Pottery Symbol Appraisal

Pottery Maker's Mark with Menorah-like Symbol

This image captures a close-up detail of a maker's mark or impressed stamp found on the underside or back of a piece of pottery. The mark is deeply impressed into the ceramic material, creating a clear, raised design against a recessed background. The primary feature of the mark is a stylized symbol resembling a menorah, a seven-branched candelabrum, although it could also be interpreted as a more generic candelabrum or even an abstract tree-like form with multiple arms extending upwards from a central base. The material itself appears to be unglazed or bisque-fired ceramic, possibly earthenware, exhibiting a warm, earthy tone ranging from light tan to a reddish-brown, indicative of the clay body and potentially some subtle firing effects or a subsequent wash. The surface surrounding the impressed mark shows characteristic concentric circles, suggesting it was formed on a potter's wheel, a common technique for shaping ceramic vessels. There are no visible signs of glaze, cracks, chips, or significant wear within the immediate area of the mark, suggesting either a well-preserved piece or a protected area of the object. The edges of the impressed design are relatively crisp, indicating a well-defined stamp was used during the greenware stage. The overall impression suggests a handcrafted origin, likely dating from the mid-20th century to contemporary, given the clear impression and the symbol's design. The quality of the impression appears to be good, indicating a deliberate and careful application of the mark.