Raku Style Bowl Appraisal

Studio Pottery Raku-Style Glazed Bowl by Allen

This is a studio pottery bowl, likely hand-thrown, characterized by its rounded, low-slung form with a slightly inverted rim. The piece displays a striking raku-style glaze or a similar experimental finish. The primary colors in the glaze are varied, featuring a base of earthy browns and grays, overlaid with iridescent patches of metallic green, pinkish-red, and dark charcoal. The glazes appear to have a distressed, almost weathered texture, suggesting a reactive firing process that creates unique, unpredictable patterns and color variations. There are visible areas where the glaze has pooled and cracked slightly, contributing to its artistic aesthetic. The overall surface is mottled and textured, not uniformly smooth, which is typical of such firing techniques. The craftsmanship appears to be art pottery, with an emphasis on unique glazes and organic forms rather than precise, mass-produced symmetry. Given the provided context, the item is signed 'Allen' in lowercase and dated 1984, indicating it is a contemporary piece from the mid-1980s. There are no readily apparent signs of damage, chips, or repairs from the image provided; the 'imperfections' are likely intentional parts of the glazing process. The bowl seems sturdy and well-made for its artisanal purpose, exemplifying a studio ceramist's individual style and technique. The interior is not visible, but typically would match or complement the exterior glazing, or be left in a more natural, unglazed state depending on the artist's intent.