Preliminary identification

Hull Pottery 'Bow-Knot' or 'Woodland' Era Peacock Figural Vase

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a striking American art pottery figural vase shaped as a stylized peacock, featuring the soft pastel airbrushed gradients characteristic of Hull's post-war production. The elegant, elongated neck of the bird serves as a dramatic handle and decorative element, while the base functions as a functional bud vase.

Story

In 1950, a devastating flood and fire destroyed the Hull Pottery plant, but the company rebuilt to create some of their most iconic pastel designs. This peacock vase brought affordable, cheerful elegance to post-war American parlors.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1905 by Addis Emmet Hull, the Hull Pottery Company initially produced utilitarian stoneware before transitioning to highly successful art pottery lines. They became famous for their matte-pastel floral lines and whimsical figural designs, which captured the hearts of homemakers across the United States.

Condition & Value

The vase appears to be in very good vintage condition with no visible cracks or major chips on the delicate beak or crest. There is some light surface dust and minor shelf wear on the bottom of the base. Excellent preservation of the satin glaze finish.

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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.