Overview
A classic vintage Frankoma ceramic leaf-shaped dish featuring the iconic mottled green glaze over local Oklahoma terracotta clay. The underside retains the impressed shape number '225' and 'FRANKOMA' mold mark on the unglazed foot pads.
Preliminary identification
Frankoma Pottery Leaf Dish (Shape 225), c. 1950s-1960s
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
Founded in 1933 by University of Oklahoma ceramics professor John Frank, Frankoma brought affordable, artful stoneware to post-Depression American homes. The rich reddish-brown clay was dug locally in Sapulpa, giving every piece its signature warm undertone.
Maker / Origin
John Frank established Frankoma in Norman, Oklahoma, before relocating to Sapulpa in 1938 to be closer to rich terracotta clay deposits. Frank aimed to produce artful pottery at accessible prices for everyday households. His wife, Grace Lee Frank, helped design many of the company's famous organic and southwestern lines.
Condition & Value
Appears in good vintage condition with characteristic glaze variations and exposed terracotta on the underside foot pads. No major chips or cracks visible in the provided images. Excellent condition helps maintain top market value for vintage Frankoma. Frankoma leaf dishes are widely collected but abundant.
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
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.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.