Anthony Freeman McFarlin Scalloped Pedestal Bowl

Story

California's mid-century pottery boom was led by designers who wanted to bring Hollywood glamour into everyday homes. This bowl represents the 'Golden Age' of West Coast ceramics, where metallic finishes were used to create affordable luxury. It was likely the centerpiece of a stylish 1950s dining table.

Maker / Origin

Anthony Freeman and McFarlin were key figures in the California pottery movement, operating out of El Monte. They were famous for their 'gold leaf' finishes and whimsical animal figurines, often collaborating with designers like Kay Finch. Their work helped define the 'California Look' that dominated American interior design for decades.

Condition & Value

The piece shows some loss to the gold finish on the interior and minor wear on the base corners, revealing the red clay body. This is typical for AFM pieces as the metallic glaze is prone to scratching. The wear reduces the value by approximately 20% compared to a mint specimen.