Studio Pottery Mug Appraisal

Hand-Thrown Studio Pottery Mug with Swirl Glaze

This item is a hand-thrown ceramic mug, likely composed of stoneware or earthenware due to its somewhat rustic aesthetic. The primary body color is an off-white or cream, serving as a base for an expressive, abstract swirl glaze pattern in shades of blue and pink. The blue appears to be a medium to dark cobalt or royal blue, while the pink is a softer, somewhat muted bubblegum or blush pink. These colors are applied in fluid, sweeping brushstrokes that encircle the mug, creating a dynamic, marbled or 'swirl' effect that is characteristic of certain studio pottery styles. The form appears to be globular or rounded. The construction suggests a handmade piece, possibly indicating a unique or limited production item rather than mass-manufactured. Notable features include the artist's signature on the base, clearly legible as 'Nancy Riverdale' followed by the date '1989'. This provides crucial manufacturing details, identifying the artist and the year of creation. The handle, partially visible, appears to be an applied loop handle, typical for a mug. Visible condition issues include a prominent hairline crack extending across the body of the mug, particularly noticeable in the upper portion where the blue and pink glaze patterns are present. This crack suggests structural damage that could affect the item's functionality if it were intended for use with liquids. There may also be craquelure or fine glaze crazing, though the resolution makes it difficult to definitively confirm widespread pervasive crazing. The base shows evidence of contact wear, consistent with an item that has been used or displayed over time. Based on the signature and date, the item belongs to the late 20th-century artisanal pottery period, specifically 1989. The style is indicative of studio pottery, emphasizing unique glazes and handmade forms. The craftsmanship, aside from the crack, appears to be of decent quality for studio pottery, with a hand-applied glaze that adds character. The crack, however, significantly impacts its condition and potential utility.