Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An intriguing studio pottery vase featuring an iridescent mother-of-pearl lustre glaze and hand-painted Art Deco-inspired geometric arches. The body of the vase also reveals a subtle, ghostly relief profile of a face integrated into the side, adding a surrealist layer to the design.
Story
Handwritten on the base is the name 'Stone,' marking this as a personal creation from the height of the American studio craft movement. The artist combined ancient lustre techniques with a hidden, sculpted face that only emerges when the light hits the glaze just right.
Maker / Origin
While the signature 'Stone' points to an independent studio potter active in the late 20th century, their identity remains a mystery typical of the era's vibrant, decentralized craft community. These potters operated small private kilns, experimenting with complex glaze chemistry away from commercial factory constraints.
Condition & Value
The vase appears to be in very good vintage condition with no visible chips or cracks. The iridescent lustre glaze shows typical minor surface variations inherent to the firing process. Excellent condition like this helps maintain the upper 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.