Stoneware Salt Pot or Spice Jar Appraisal
Category: Ceramics
Description
This is a small blue and grey ceramic salt pot or spice jar. It is cylindrical in shape with a slightly flaring rim and a recessed area on the interior to allow for a lid, although no lid is present in the image. The exterior surface is a mottled grey and white, featuring a decorative pattern of swirling blue lines and dots. There are two applied loop handles on the sides, giving the vessel a somewhat rustic or artisanal appearance. A thin blue line encircles the lower portion of the body, just above the base. The base itself appears to be unglazed. The ceramic body shows some visible texture and possibly some crazing in the glaze, suggesting a handmade or small-batch production method. The overall condition appears to be good, with no obvious chips or cracks visible in the image. The style is reminiscent of traditional German salt-glazed stoneware, sometimes referred to as "salt glaze pottery." Due to the applied handles and swirling blue design, it could be considered a decorative or functional kitchen item.
Appraisal Report
Based on my visual examination of the provided image, this stoneware salt pot or spice jar appears to be a charming and functional piece. The blue and grey coloration, applied loop handles, and swirling blue decoration are characteristic of traditional salt-glazed stoneware, likely of European origin, possibly German. The condition appears to be good, with no chips or cracks immediately visible. However, the presence of visible texture, possible crazing, and an unglazed base suggest a handmade or artisanal process rather than mass production. The lack of a lid does detract slightly from its completeness as a functional piece. Without physical examination, it is difficult to definitively determine age or authenticity. The style could be contemporary artisanal production or a genuine antique piece. In-person examination would allow for a closer inspection of the clay body, glazes, and manufacturing techniques, offering more clues about age and origin. Further authentication would benefit greatly from provenance documentation or potentially scientific testing of the clay and glazes. The market for decorative and functional kitchenware, particularly pieces with a rustic or traditional aesthetic, remains relatively steady. Similar, though not identical, smaller salt-glazed stoneware pieces can be found on the market, with prices varying based on age, condition, maker, and provenance. Authentic antique examples from well-known producers often command higher values, while contemporary handmade pieces are typically priced based on craftsmanship and artistic merit. Demand is moderate, driven by collectors and individuals seeking unique kitchen items. Factors significantly impacting value include authenticity (confirming if it is antique or contemporary), maker (if identifiable), and the presence of a lid. Without these, the value is primarily driven by its decorative appeal and perceived quality. Considering these factors and the limitations of image-based appraisal, this piece falls into the range of a decorative or functional item with potential artisanal value.
Appraisal Value
$50-$100