5 1/2″ height X 10 7/8″ diameter Some abrasions in the area of the bottom dark fire cloud. Rim damage in multiple places 1/2″ – 5/8″ in length. Abrasions to bowl’s interior suggest piecing.
Originally purchased for more than $10,000 in 1989, this Four Mile replica was correctly valued $400 in 2011.
Four Mile Polychrome pottery dates 1350-1400 AD and is characterized by the use of black and white on red on both interior and exterior of bowls or on jar exteriors. Exterior design consists of a band with continuous pattern. Whereas a bowl exterior may involve no more than a simple or complex fret theme or repeated small zigzags, the jar exterior has the same but alternating with a second motif; bowl interior patterns are much more complex. Generally more red is left blank between motifs than in St. Johns ware or Pinedale.
Cross consulted with a dealer known to have sold prehistoric pottery. This individual recognized who likely made this modern version of a Four Mile pottery bowl.
Dating was determined by reliance on a Thermoluminescence Analysis Report produced by Oxford Authentication Ltd. Naturally a copy of this report was appended to my appraisal.
Not sure if my client was able to get his money back from the seller. The individual who likely produced this faux prehistoric bowl is deceased.
Corinne Cain
This is the second imposter prehistoric pottery vessel I’ve investigated, same seller, different purchaser, likely same maker.