Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a vibrant mid-century art pottery vase featuring a dramatic, high-gloss red and black drip glaze. The bottom is clearly impressed with the stylized 'SJM' monogram and 'STONEWARE' mark, characteristic of the San Jose Mission pottery line.
Story
Handcrafted in California, this vase captures the bold, experimental spirit of mid-century American studio pottery. Its fiery glaze was designed to mimic volcanic flow, bringing the raw energy of the West Coast landscape indoors.
Maker / Origin
San Jose Mission Stoneware produced highly decorative, colorful art pottery that capitalized on the mid-century craze for California design. Known for their rich, flowing glazes and organic shapes, they created accessible art pieces for the modern American home.
Condition & Value
The vase appears to be in good vintage condition with no visible cracks or major chips. Some minor shelf wear and dirt on the unglazed foot rim are present, which is typical for its age and does not significantly hurt the value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.