Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a classic mid-century ceramic leaf dish produced by the legendary Frankoma Pottery, featuring their iconic, vibrant 'Flame' orange glaze over a rich brown base. Molded in the organic shape of a stylized leaf with small peg feet, this piece represents the warmth and natural aesthetic of American mid-century regional design.
Story
In 1933, a university art professor named John Frank started a pottery revolution in Oklahoma using local clay. This fiery orange glaze was designed to capture the brilliant, warm sunsets of the American Great Plains.
Maker / Origin
Founded by John Frank in Norman, Oklahoma, before moving to Sapulpa, Frankoma Pottery is famous for celebrating the spirit of the American West. Frank was a pioneer in using local Oklahoma clay—first light-colored Ada clay, and later the iron-rich, reddish-brown Sapulpa clay seen on the bottom of this dish.
Condition & Value
The photos show the dish in very good vintage condition with no obvious cracks or major chips on the top glazed surface. The unglazed peg feet show typical light shelf wear and minor discoloration from use, which is completely normal and does not significantly hurt the 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.