Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a wheel-thrown studio stoneware bowl featuring a dramatically flared rim, banded ochre and terracotta glaze transitions, and a speckled reduction-fired surface. The underside is hand-incised with the maker's signature and dated 1982 alongside a copyright symbol, marking it as a unique piece of late-20th-century American craft pottery.
Story
Created in 1982, this hand-thrown bowl reflects the vibrant peak of the American studio pottery movement. Each layered band of glaze captures the exact chemical alchemy of a high-temperature kiln firing over forty years ago.
Maker / Origin
The incised signature appears to read 'Coombs' (or a similar studio maker such as Coomes/Coomas), active during the American craft revival. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, independent ceramicists set up independent regional studios across North America, blending Japanese folk-craft (Mingei) philosophy with modern functional forms.
Condition & Value
Appears to be in very good vintage condition with no visible cracks, large rim chips, or structural restorations. Glaze pooling and surface mottling are intentional firing effects. Excellent condition supports top-of-range value for studio craft.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.