Signed Mid-Century Studio Pottery Base

This is a detailed view of the underside base of a studio pottery piece, likely a figurine or decorative vessel. The object is constructed from a light-colored, cream-toned ceramic or stoneware clay body with a matte, unglazed finish on the resting surface. The most prominent feature is the hand-incised or hand-painted signature in a brown oxide or slip, which appears to read 'HEC' in a stylized, cursive script, accompanied by the notations 'F.L. 4' or similar alphanumeric coding below. These markings suggest a studio environment where pieces were cataloged by artist and series. The shape of the base is an elongated, slightly curved kidney or bean shape, indicating an organic, non-symmetrical form above. The condition shows minor surface soiling and shelf wear consistent with age, but no major chips or cracks are visible in this section. The stylistic nature of the handwriting and the quality of the ceramic body suggest a mid-to-late 20th-century origin, likely from the Mid-Century Modern studio pottery movement. The craftsmanship is indicative of an individual artisan rather than mass production, evidenced by the tactile, hand-applied markings and the slight irregularities in the clay surface.