Overview
A striking American art pottery planter featuring a stylized Bird of Paradise with a flowing crest and vibrant polychrome glazes. This piece represents the transition from Art Nouveau elegance to Mid-Century decorative whimsy.
Preliminary identification
Hull Pottery 'Bird of Paradise' Planter, No. 64
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
Post-war American families used these colorful birds to bring life to their new suburban windowsills. The 'Bird of Paradise' line was a bold departure from Hull's floral patterns, designed to catch the eye with its exotic flair.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1905, Hull Pottery became a household name in America, surviving a devastating flood and fire in 1950. They were masters of the 'matte' finish and pastel gradients, making high-quality art pottery accessible to the middle class.
Condition & Value
The glaze appears bright with no obvious crazing in the photo. The delicate crest and beak seem intact, which is rare for this mold. Excellent condition can push the value toward the higher end of the range.
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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 compsRegional 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.