Preliminary identification

Hull Art Pottery 'Magnolia' and 'Wildflower' Vases

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A pair of American art pottery vessels featuring the iconic pastel matte glazes and embossed floral motifs that defined the mid-century home. The bulbous vase features the 'Magnolia' pattern (c. 1946), while the cornucopia-style vessel showcases the 'Wildflower' pattern (c. 1946).

Story

In 1950, a catastrophic flood and fire destroyed the Hull factory, making pre-1950 pieces like these survivors of a lost era. These pastels were designed to bring a sense of soft optimism to American parlors after WWII.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1905 by Addis Emmet Hull, the company transitioned from utilitarian stoneware to high-art pottery that rivaled Roseville. They became famous for their 'matte' finishes and gradient color schemes that blended seamlessly from one hue to another.

Condition & Value

The vases appear to be in good vintage condition with no large visible cracks. There is some minor surface dust and potential light crazing consistent with age; any small chips to the high-relief floral edges would reduce value by 20%. Individual vases in these common patterns typically sell for $30-$70 each.

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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
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.