Preliminary identification

Mid-Century Modern Ceramic Planter with Brass Lattice Stand, Shape No. 638

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

A striking mid-century modern low rectangular ceramic planter featuring a vibrant forest green exterior glaze and a clean white interior. It sits beautifully in its original, delicate brass-plated metal lattice stand with small protective rubber-tipped feet.

Story

During the post-war housing boom of the 1950s, bringing nature indoors became an obsession. This sleek planter, complete with its architectural lattice stand, was designed to showcase exotic houseplants on a modern coffee table.

Maker / Origin

While the mold number '638' is clearly impressed on the bottom, several prominent mid-century American potteries utilized similar numbering systems and metal stands, including Royal Haeger and Red Wing. These companies transitioned from traditional pottery to highly stylized, sculptural home accessories to capture the booming suburban market.

Condition & Value

The ceramic planter shows minor glaze crazing consistent with age, and some light wear/tarnishing is visible on the metal stand. The presence of the original rubber feet on the stand is excellent for preservation. Overall very good vintage condition.

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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 comps
Regional 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.