Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic salt-glazed stoneware vase featuring a hand-incised cobalt blue tulip motif. This piece is a modern revival of 18th-century American folk pottery traditions, characterized by its 'orange peel' texture and vibrant blue slip decoration.
Story
Founded in 1938 by James Maloney with only $5, this pottery became a Virginia icon. It revived the colonial salt-glaze technique, where salt thrown into a 2,300-degree kiln creates a glass-like, pitted finish.
Maker / Origin
The Williamsburg Pottery Factory was a pioneer in the 'factory outlet' concept, but its heart was always the kilns. James Maloney was obsessed with recreating the durable, utilitarian beauty of colonial-era jugs and crocks for a modern audience, turning a small roadside stand into a massive artisanal destination.
Condition & Value
The piece shows typical manufacturing irregularities consistent with salt-glazing. There are minor surface scuffs on the underside, but the cobalt remains vibrant and the rim appears intact. Excellent condition for this type of utility ware. Value is driven by the popularity of the tulip motif and the size of the vessel.
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.