Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is an exceptionally elegant art pottery pitcher featuring a relief-molded 'Lily of the Valley' floral motif against a soft, pastel green ground. Known for its graceful, sweeping handle and delicate color transitions, this piece represents the peak of mid-century American decorative art pottery.
Story
In 1950, a devastating flood and fire destroyed the Hull factory, making pieces from this era highly symbolic of resilience. The 'Lily of the Valley' line, with its hopeful spring blooms, was a massive favorite in post-war American homes.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1905 by Addis Emmet Hull, the Hull Pottery Company initially produced utilitarian stoneware before transitioning to highly successful art pottery lines in the 1930s. Their signature pastel glazes and floral designs became a staple of American middle-class decor, celebrated for making high-quality art ware accessible to everyone.
Condition & Value
The visible portion of the pitcher shows excellent glaze color and no obvious chips on the delicate spout or handle. However, a full inspection is needed to check for base chips or interior crazing. Pristine condition commands the higher end of the value 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.