Overview
A wonderfully tactile mid-century ceramic planter shaped like a leaping trout, featuring a rich, multi-tonal glaze.
Preliminary identification
Napcoware Trout Ceramic Planter, Model C8985
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Story
In the years following World War II, American homes underwent a thematic revolution where basement bars and dens were transformed into rustic retreats.
Maker / Origin
National Potteries Corporation, better known as Napco, was founded in 1938 in Bedford, Ohio, and became a dominant force in the floral and giftware industry.
Condition & Value
The piece appears to be in good vintage condition with no major chips visible on the fins or tail, which are the most vulnerable areas. There is some expected shelf wear on the unglazed bottom rim and minor internal mineral staining from previous use as a planter.
Full Research
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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.
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 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD