Mid-Century Modern Salt and Pepper Shaker (Single Piece)
Ceramic and Decorative Art, Functional Pitcher/Shaker Form • Attributed to Russell Wright (American, 1904–1976) for Steubenville Pottery, from the 'American Modern' line; or possibly similar Mid-Century designers like Ben Seibel or Red Wing Pottery.
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern (American), Organic Modernism
Medium & Technique
Kiln-fired earthenware or stoneware with a satin-matte glaze. The technique involves mold-casting with a dark 'manganese' or metallic glaze application that shows slight variations in thickness (variegation) along the stepped base.
Creation Period
Circa 1950 - 1965
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 3-4 inches in height. Ovoid, three-dimensional form.
Subject Description
A utilitarian object designed with an organic, ergonomic bulbous body. The design emphasizes form over ornamentation, featuring a characteristic stepped or ridged base common in 20th-century industrial ceramic design.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good. The foot rim shows standard surface wear and shelf dirt.
Estimated Market Value
$10 - $25 (Individual unit)
Auction Estimate
$15 - $40 (Expected as part of a lot or set)
Provenance History
Likely part of a mass-produced consumer dinnerware set. No specific labels visible in the image, but the unglazed foot ring is typical of mid-market American commercial pottery of the postwar era.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the democratization of design in the mid-20th century, where industrial designers applied high-art modernist principles (biomorphism) to household items to improve everyday living.
Notable Features
The 'Stepped' base design and the satin black/charcoal glaze are iconic markers of the 'American Modern' aesthetic, designed to be 'easier for the eye' and tactilely pleasant.
Condition Issues
Visible shelf wear on the unglazed ring. Small white specks on the glaze may be surface debris or minor glaze pops (firing defects). No major chips or cracks are visible in the top profile.
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive sponges which can mar the satin-matte glaze finish.