Is there an app for identifying pottery?

“Very helpful app!” Our main marks identification reference guides display all images of marks of a similar shape on a single page and is super easy to use. If you’re new to looking at pottery, any marks you find may seem cryptic and random. …

What do the numbers on the bottom of pottery mean?

There are marks that indicate a specific mold called a mold number. These numbers often look like dates such as 1953 or 1789. It is rare that a piece of pottery will have a date stamped or embossed into its base. If a number looks like a date or a year, it is most likely a mold number.

Where to find California originals pottery in California?

California Originals California Originals pottery was located in Torrance, California, and the pottery is often marked Calif. Orig. or Cal. Orig. with three numbers for the shape. Often found with drip glazes during the mid-century modern era, this company produced ashtrays, cookie jars, vases and a few figurines.

Where was the original Calabasas California pottery located?

Production continued in Calabasas until 1953. Fine-quality figurines are often marked “Cal” in script. California Originals pottery was located in Torrance, California, and the pottery is often marked Calif. Orig. or Cal. Orig. with three numbers for the shape.

What was a major event in the history of California pottery?

Key milestones in the history of California pottery include: the arrival of Spanish settlers, the advent of Statehood and subsequent population growth, the arts and crafts movement, Great Depression, World War II era and the post-WWII onslaught of low-priced imports leading to a steep decline in the number of California potteries.

What kind of pins do California potters use?

There are also some California potters who used stilts or firing pins for most of their glazing. Metlox was one California pottery using firing pins. Notice the three flaws on this Metlox pitcher (right), indicative of firing pins. Vohann is another example of a glazed bottom with firing pins.