Lidded Pottery Bucket Cookie Jar
Decorative art, ceramic storage vessel • Likely a North American commercial pottery firm such as Hull, McCoy, or Napco (Unmarked)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Americana / Kitsch
Medium & Technique
Slip-cast ceramic (likely stoneware or earthenware) with a high-gloss lead or alkaline glaze and a metal wire swing handle
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century, approximately 1940-1960
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 7 to 9 inches in height with a circular 6-inch diameter footprint; cylindrical vertical format
Subject Description
A cylindrical jar designed to resemble a wooden stave bucket with metal hoops. The lid features a relief-molded 'rope' handle and a cross-hatched pattern suggesting a woven or slatted cover. The body features simulated wood grain texture.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible surface grime and significant glaze wear at the contact points
Estimated Market Value
$25 - $45
Auction Estimate
$15 - $30
Provenance History
Unknown; likely mass-produced for the domestic retail market and recently sourced from a secondary estate or thrift market as indicated by the 'TC82' price tag
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of mid-century functional kitchenware aesthetics, reflecting the post-war trend for 'country' or 'rustic' themed domestic decor in suburban American households
Notable Features
Trompe l’oeil wood-grain texture; original period metal handle; distinct rope-style lid finial
Condition Issues
Visible 'flea bites' and chips to the glaze on the rim and lid edges; oxidation/rust on the metal handle; heavy accumulation of dust/grime in the recessed textures; shelf wear on the bottom
Conservation Recommendations
Mild cleaning with a non-abrasive detergent to remove surface oils; handle should be checked for structural integrity; keep in a dry environment to prevent further metal oxidation