Yellow and purple poppies, embossed and hand painted on warm off-white earthenware — bolder than Desert Rose, less expected, and genuinely collectible. This Franciscan cup carries the half moon mark used only between 1949 and 1953, making it one of the earlier pieces in the Franciscan canon and a particular find for serious collectors of American midcentury pottery.
Franciscan Pottery was the brand name Gladding McBean introduced in 1934 for their artisan dinnerware line. Their embossed, hand-painted patterns — beginning with Apple in 1940 and Desert Rose in 1941 — set the standard for what American casual fine dining could look like. The Poppy pattern followed, with the same branch-style handle and tactile, sculptural quality that made Franciscan pieces so distinctive. Marked "Made in California." Hand wash recommended.
A wonderful piece for a Franciscan collector, a pottery enthusiast, or anyone who wants something with real American craft heritage on their shelf or table. Beautiful for a birthday, housewarming, or as a gift for someone who loves the unexpected.
Maker: Franciscan / Gladding McBean, California, USA (discontinued)
Era: 1949–1953 (half moon mark)
Material: Earthenware, hand painted
Dimensions: Saucer 6.25" diameter; cup 4" diameter × 2.25" tall
Condition: Excellent vintage. Pristine, no issues noted. The line visible on cup in photos is a saucer reflection, not a defect. Hand wash recommended.
