Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a classic mid-century American art pottery creamer designed in the highly collectible 'Corn King' pattern. It features a beautifully molded ear of yellow corn partially wrapped in rich green husks, finished with a high-gloss glaze. The bottom is clearly marked with the raised 'Shawnee USA 70' mold mark, confirming its authentic Ohio heritage.
Story
Zanesville, Ohio became the clay capital of the world in the 1940s. Shawnee Pottery captured the post-war American spirit by turning everyday dinnerware into cheerful, sculptural celebrations of agricultural abundance.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1937, the Shawnee Pottery Company took its name from the Native American tribe native to the Ohio area where they sourced their rich local clay. They specialized in affordable, whimsical kitchenware, famously producing iconic cookie jars and the beloved Corn King and Corn Queen dinnerware lines before closing their doors in 1961.
Condition & Value
The photos show the creamer in very good vintage condition with bright glaze and no obvious major chips or cracks on the exterior. There is some typical light shelf wear and minor discoloration on the unglazed foot ring, which is normal for its age.
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.