RZM Fine Arts and Antiques Inc: Ask the Appraiser

Hi Jon. I have been looking at this thing since I was a young child. It belonged to my grandmother. When she passed my mother took possession of it.  At first, I thought it was the ugliest thing in the world. Now I still find it ugly, but interesting. My problem is I have absolutely no idea what it is or when it was made. My grandmother always kept it in her china cabinet. She treasured it. Can you help me the way you help other people with their things each week? Really looking forward to learning about this thing.

Henry J 

Nanuet

Henry, allow me first to answer your question by explaining that the “thing” you possess, in all its splendor, is a wonderful example of art deco period design (1920-1940). I guess it rings true that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. You own an American art pottery vase, in the Futura pattern, by the famous Roseville Pottery Company of Zanesville, Ohio. Known as the “ Ballon Globe” vase, it features a spherical body on an abstract angular base, with melting and blending colors. This design was a real step into the future for the Roseville pottery line. Getting away from the more traditional styles the company was producing. Perfect for the modern times. Your vase originally had a silver color paper Roseville label on the bottom that has apparently been lost to time. Most patterns of Roseville pottery have taken a substantial decline in value recently, perhaps due to the antique pottery market in general, being in less demand, by the younger generation. The Futura pattern however is one of the exceptions. In fact, I have observed an increase in the value of this particular line of pottery due to its modern style appealing to a younger generation of people. Earlier this year, I personally sold a Futura vase to a New York City decorator at the Miami Beach Antique Show. Therefore, the current value of your Roseville Futura vase is $900 USD. The value I’m assigning to your vase is with the assumption that the vase has remained in excellent condition. No chips, cracks or restoration. Thank you for your question and great photographs.