Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a classic semi-vitreous earthenware serving platter in a soft 'Delph Blue' matte glaze, designed by the legendary J.A. Bauer Pottery Company. Featuring the characteristic soft, rounded-square silhouette and integrated tab handles of the 'La Linda' line, it represents the height of California's mid-century casual dining revolution.
Story
During the Great Depression, Los Angeles-based Bauer Pottery shattered the tradition of formal white dinnerware by introducing vibrant, mix-and-match solid colors. This platter brought the sunny, casual optimism of the California lifestyle straight to dining rooms across America.
Maker / Origin
Founded in the late 19th century in Kentucky before relocating to Los Angeles in 1910, Bauer Pottery became a design powerhouse under the direction of ceramicists like Victor Houser. They pioneered the concept of colorful, casual California clay dinnerware, a style that would be widely copied by competitors like Fiesta.
Condition & Value
The platter shows light surface scratching and utensil marks on the face consistent with age and use. The reverse shows three standard kiln stilt marks which are part of the manufacturing process, not damage. No major chips or cracks are visible, though light wear to the edges is present.
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.