Franciscan Earthenware 'Strawberries' Fluted Rim Cereal/Soup Bowl
Franciscan (Gladding, McBean & Co.) · Kitchenware & Appliances > Dinnerware
Era / Decade
Early 1950s (Constructed in California). The 'Strawberries' pattern was introduced in 1950 and remains a mid-century staple.
Material
Hand-painted earthenware (ceramic) with a high-gloss glaze finish. A thicker, durable pottery typical of Franciscan Ware.
Condition
Good to Very Good. The glaze appears bright with minimal utensil marking; however, Franciscan earthenware of this era is highly prone to 'crazing' (fine spider-web cracks in the glaze) and rim chips.
Demand Level
Moderate to Strong. 'Strawberries' and 'Desert Rose' are the top two most collected Franciscan patterns. Demand is higher for collectors completing sets.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $8.00 | Mid: $15.00 | High: $22.00 (Price is highly dependent on whether it is a USA-made original vs. later Johnson Bros/England production).
Estimated Retail Value
$25.00 - $32.00 per bowl (Equivalent modern replacement cost from retailers like Replacements, Ltd.)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay 'Sold' listings show individual bowls selling between $12 and $19 plus shipping. Sets of 4 often bring $50-$65. Pristine pieces without crazing command the highest premiums.
Description
Exquisite Franciscan Earthenware bowl in the classic 'Strawberries' pattern. Features a beautiful fluted/scalloped rim with hand-painted green sponged edging. The center motif showcases two vibrant red strawberries with green leaves and delicate black vines on a creamy off-white ground. Measures approximately 6 inches in diameter.
Key Features
Hand-painted folk art appeal; Highly collectible Mid-Century Modern kitchenware; Made in California stamp (if present); iconic American dinnerware history; heavy, quality feel.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. Look for a backstamp stating 'Franciscan Earthenware' or 'Made in USA.' A circle or rectangular stamp on the bottom is the hallmark of original California production. The brushstrokes of the sponged green border are authentic to the hand-finished process.
Flaws to Note
Look closely for crazing (common in this line), small flea bites on the scalloped edges, and potential staining under the glaze if the clay body was exposed. Check for 'stilt marks' on the bottom which are normal factory marks, not damage.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for reaching international collectors. Etsy is excellent for the vintage aesthetic. Facebook Marketplace is viable for a quick local sale if sold as a set of 4 or more.
Selling Tips
Highlight the 'Made in USA' status in the title if the backstamp confirms it. Use keywords like 'MCM', 'Retro Kitchen', and 'Hand Painted'. Photo the backstamp clearly. Ship with double-boxing and plenty of bubble wrap as earthenware is brittle.