Identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
This is an authentic mid-century art pottery square planter created by the famed Hull Pottery Company. It features a rich drip-glaze finish with warm olive and brown tones, supported by four molded feet and stamped on the base with the distinctive script 'Hull' trademark and mold designation 'A2'. The valuation is anchored by exact mold matches (Hull A2 footed square planter) recently sold across common resale platforms.
Story
The Hull Pottery Company was founded in 1905 in Crooksville, Ohio, initially producing utilitarian stoneware before transitioning to art pottery. By the 1950s, their mid-century modern designs, characterized by distinctive drip glazes and pastel tones, became highly popular in American homes. The 'A2' designation refers to the specific mold shape from their mid-century planter lines.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
Assuming standard vintage condition without major chips, cracks, or deep crazing, the planter retains its full decorative utility. Because it is a functional planter, the primary condition variables are interior hard water staining, mineral deposits, or hidden hairline cracks, which can slightly reduce its appeal to buyers seeking pristine display pieces. Appears to be in overall good vintage condition with minor shelf wear on the unglazed feet. The drip glaze remains glossy, though close inspection for minor rim nicks or internal crazing would finalize condition grade.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
The secondary market for mid-century American art pottery like Hull is active but highly accessible, functioning primarily as decorative household items rather than high-end collector antiquities. Buyers are typically found on Etsy, eBay, and Mercari, looking for affordable, authentic retro accents. Prices for common molds like the A2 planter remain very stable in the $15 to $30 range, driven by aesthetic appeal and color rather than rarity.
▲ Exact mold match (Hull A2) confirms identification and establishes a clear, highly predictable market baseline.
▲ Desirable mid-century drip-glaze finish (olive/brown) typically outperforms plain white variants in the current retro-decor market.
▲ Authentic American art pottery from a recognized maker (Hull Pottery Company) adds baseline vintage appeal.
▼ Unverified interior condition — heavy mineral deposits or hard water stains from prior use could lower the value toward the $10 floor.
▼ Unverified structural integrity — any hidden hairline cracks or chips on the molded feet would deter buyers.
Best Venue
List the planter on a broad secondhand marketplace like Etsy or eBay, where mid-century decor performs best. Price optimistically at $25 to allow room for offers or shipping considerations. Ensure the listing includes clear, well-lit photos of the 'Hull A2' base stamp and the interior to reassure buyers of its condition.
Upside Potential
Given the high production volume of this specific mold, the upside is naturally capped; however, if the piece is in absolute mint, unused condition with an exceptionally striking glaze application, it could push toward the $30-$35 range to a dedicated mid-century decor buyer.