Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a classic mid-century ceramic serving dish shaped like a stylized leaf, produced by the iconic American art pottery firm Frankoma. It features the company's signature warm, earthy glaze over their famous local Oklahoma clay, showing off the beautiful natural variations in tone.
Story
Founded in 1933 by art professor John Frank, Frankoma set out to make beautiful art pottery affordable for everyday families. This leaf dish brought the organic, flowing lines of the Oklahoma landscape directly onto mid-century dining tables.
Maker / Origin
John Frank started the company in Norman, Oklahoma, using local Ada clay before moving operations to Sapulpa in 1938, where he switched to a rich, red Sapulpa clay. Frankoma became a beloved household name, surviving devastating fires and economic shifts by remaining true to its accessible, nature-inspired designs.
Condition & Value
The dish appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips, cracks, or crazing. The glaze retains its original luster, and the unglazed feet on the bottom show minimal wear. Excellent condition is key to maintaining its value.
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.