Overview
A striking matte black ceramic vessel featuring hand-etched (sgraffito) geometric spirals and stylized indigenous figures.
Preliminary identification
Hand-Etched Sgraffito Folk Art Vase, c. 1980s-1990s
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Story
In the small Nicaraguan village of San Juan de Oriente, pottery is the lifeblood of the community, with techniques dating back over 2,000 years to the Chorotega people.
Maker / Origin
While this specific piece appears unsigned, it originates from the 'Pueblos Blancos' (White Towns) tradition, where family workshops pass down secret slip recipes and etching styles.
Condition & Value
The vase appears to be in very good vintage condition with no visible cracks or large chips. There are some light surface scuffs and a residue mark on the bottom where a price tag or origin sticker was previously located.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
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.
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 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD