This stunning huge dish is handmade stoneware, which has been glazed to a dark brown colour.

The light cream-colored turtle design appears to have been created using a technique such as sgraffito, or etching, where a layer of glaze is scratched away to reveal the lighter clay underneath before firing.

The brown and cream aesthetic gives a carved appearance. Similar pieces are produced by artisans in Hawaii as "Raku pottery".

This dish is really huge, almost 50 cm in diameter.

It is a decorative piece, but it may also be used as a fruit bowl.

• Artisan Craftsmanship: The irregular shape confirms it is likely a one-of-a-kind piece of studio art pottery, hand-thrown or hand-built by an independent ceramic artist. This makes it more special than mass-produced items.

• Technique: The contrasting cream turtle on the brown background was likely achieved using the sgraffito technique, where the top layer of dark glaze was scratched away to reveal a lighter clay body underneath before firing.

• Possible Regions: Similar pieces are often associated with coastal artisan communities, including those in Hawaii (sometimes made as Raku pottery) or Indonesia (known for redware with black glazes).

• No specific maker or brand: Without a visible signature or maker's mark on the base, it is challenging to identify the specific artist, but its handcrafted nature contributes to its unique value. 

I bought this piece for my home at auction a few years ago but unfortunately after moving house I no longer have a large kitchen island to display it.

It really is a beautiful beautiful piece.

Measuring approximately

49.5 cm Diameter

9.5 cm height

If you have any questions or require any further pictures, please feel free to contact us.

Our contact details can be found at the bottom of the listing under "Business seller information" if using the desktop site, or at the bottom of the listing under "Registered as a business seller" if using the mobile app

Collection welcome from Grassington in the Yorkshire Dales.

Or

I will carefully pack your item and post to the UK mainland and to the Highlands & Islands of Scotland. Please note there can be a delay in delivery to these areas.

My family has farmed in the Yorkshire Dales for over five generations. Not only am I surrounded by the amazing beauty of the Yorkshire Dales but I am also ideally located to find fantastic antiques and unique items to make your home or garden stand out from the rest.

Please take a look at my other items and add me to your Favourites list.

Many thanks,

Vicky, The Red Hen.