Overview
A whimsical, relief-sculpted ceramic medallion featuring a 'puckered' sun face surrounded by a vibrant geometric border. This piece represents the 'Celestial' design trend that dominated boutique home decor in the late 20th century.
Preliminary identification
Hand-Painted Celestial Sun Face Ceramic Medallion
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
During the 1990s, a fascination with the cosmos swept through the design world, fueled by the approaching millennium and a resurgence of New Age spirituality.
Maker / Origin
While the specific artist remains unknown due to the faded mark on the reverse, the style is consistent with the 'Studio Craft' movement.
Condition & Value
The front remains vibrant with minimal paint loss; however, the reverse shows significant wear to the silver finish and a partially obscured rectangular mark. This wear suggests it may have been handled frequently as a 'worry stone' or pocket charm.
Full Research
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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 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD