Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a beautiful, low-slung art pottery console bowl featuring a striking dual-glaze treatment. The exterior is finished in a velvety, matte robin's egg teal, while the interior transitions into a glossy, swirling pool of marine blue and turquoise. Its simple, organic form exemplifies the transition from the Arts and Crafts movement into early Art Deco simplicity.
Story
During the 1920s, American potteries competed fiercely to develop unique chemical glazes that mimicked natural elements. This bowl's interior glaze was formulated to look like moving water, turning a simple table centerpiece into a miniature indoor pond.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece strongly resembles the work of prominent Ohio potteries like Cowan or Rookwood. Cowan Pottery (1912–1931), led by R. Guy Cowan in Rocky River, Ohio, became world-famous for its innovative, chemically complex glazes and sleek, modern shapes before the Great Depression forced its closure.
Condition & Value
The bowl shows some minor surface wear, light interior staining/mineral deposits from historical use with water, and typical manufacturing glaze pops on the underside. No major chips or cracks are visible. Excellent condition would command the higher end of the range.
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.