What Do The Numbers Mean On Frankoma Pottery

Okay, let's talk Frankoma. Not just any pottery, but Frankoma! You know, that cool, earthy stuff your grandma probably had. Ever flipped one over and seen a number? Wondered what the heck it meant? You're not alone!

Decoding the Frankoma Code: It's Not That Secret (But Still Fun!)

Those numbers? They're like little breadcrumbs. Hints! They're usually stamped or impressed on the bottom of a piece. Think of it as Frankoma's way of whispering, "Hey, here's my story." But unlike a juicy gossip sesh, the story is about the design and shape, not who dated who back in the '50s.

Seriously, the numbers usually refer to the shape number. They help collectors identify the specific mold used to create that particular piece. It’s like a pottery fingerprint!

But here’s the fun part: Frankoma didn't exactly have a super-organized filing system. So, sometimes the numbers are...well, let’s just say they’re a little quirky. Expect variations!

Why Bother Knowing the Numbers?

Why should you care? Good question! Here's the lowdown:

• Identification: It's the easiest way to know what you've got! "Oh, this is a #90!" Sounds impressive, right?
• Value: Some shapes are rarer than others. Numbers help you gauge potential worth. Think of it as pottery treasure hunting!
• Context: Knowing the shape gives you insight into when it was made and what it was used for. Pottery detective work!
• Because it's FUN! Seriously, who doesn't love a little mystery?

Plus, imagine impressing your friends! "Oh, this vase? It's a #84, first produced in 1938!" Instant pottery guru status.

Frankoma Funny Business: Things to Keep in Mind

Frankoma wasn't always consistent. Brace yourself for some pottery pandemonium:

• Missing Numbers: Some pieces have no numbers at all! Don't panic. It just means it might be harder to identify.
• Variations: The same shape might have slightly different numbers depending on the era. It’s all part of the charm!
• Reissues: Frankoma re-released some shapes over the years. So, a number might appear on pieces from different decades.

Think of it as Frankoma playing a little game with us. Keeps things interesting, right?

Beyond the Numbers: The Clay Tells a Tale

While the shape number is key, don't forget about the clay! Frankoma used different clays throughout its history. The most famous are:

• Ada Clay: A beautiful red clay.
• Sapulpa Clay: A creamy, buff-colored clay.

The clay color, combined with the glaze, gives each piece its unique character. The clay can also help narrow down the production date of a piece, adding another layer to your pottery sleuthing!

Glaze Mania: Another Piece of the Puzzle

Speaking of glaze, Frankoma had a rainbow of colors! Some are super common, others are rare as hens' teeth. The glaze, combined with the shape and clay, is what makes Frankoma so collectible.

Certain glazes were only used for a limited time, making them highly sought after. So, while the number is important, don't underestimate the power of a beautiful (and rare!) glaze.

Where to Find the Frankoma Number Lowdown

Ready to dive deep into the world of Frankoma numbers? Here's where to start your research:

• Online Resources: There are tons of websites and forums dedicated to Frankoma pottery. Google is your friend!
• Books: Invest in a good Frankoma reference book. These are goldmines of information.
• Collector Communities: Join a local or online Frankoma collector group. These folks are passionate and knowledgeable!

Just remember to take everything with a grain of salt. Frankoma identification can be tricky, and even the experts disagree sometimes.

So, is it a Big Deal?

Okay, so knowing the numbers won't unlock the secrets of the universe. But it will make you a more informed (and impressive!) Frankoma enthusiast. It’s a fun way to connect with the history of American pottery.

So next time you spot a piece of Frankoma, flip it over, check out the number, and dive into the rabbit hole. You might just discover a whole new world of pottery passion! Happy hunting!