Preliminary identification

McCoy Pottery 'Leaves and Berries' Ribbed Vase, c. 1940

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A classic example of American art pottery featuring a tapered, horizontally ribbed body accented by a raised berry and leaf motif.

Story

The Ohio River Valley became the 'Pottery Capital of the World' during the early 20th century because of its massive natural deposits of high-quality clay.

Maker / Origin

The Nelson McCoy Sanitary Stoneware Co. was founded in 1910 and evolved into one of the most iconic names in American ceramics.

Condition & Value

The vase appears to be in good vintage condition with the glaze retaining a high shine. There is some minor shelf wear on the unglazed foot and what appears to be a small glaze skip or firing pop near the rim, which is a common manufacturing artifact for McCoy.

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 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD