Franciscan Ware Saucer c.1955–1965 | Mid-Century Aqua California Pottery
Viridian Eclection
The Piece
A mid century California ceramic saucer by Franciscan Ware, in glazed earthenware, with a sculptural radiating swirl pattern finished in a soft aqua glaze.
The design relies entirely on molded form and color, with no applied decoration or printed pattern. Light catches the rippled surface unevenly, which gives the piece visual movement on its own terms.
The shallow well and gently flared rim reflect Franciscan's emphasis on ease and everyday use rather than formal presentation.
History & Provenance
Franciscan Ware produced this saucer in California in approximately 1955 to 1965. The molded swirl and fan relief and the aqua glaze are hallmarks of the company's post war approach to casual American tableware.
During the 1950s and early 1960s Franciscan Ware helped redefine American dining, moving away from rigid, European influenced table settings toward informal modern living. Made in California, the ceramics embraced sculptural form, regional color palettes and flexibility of use.
Rather than ornate patterns, pieces of this kind relied on texture and glaze to create interest. They were designed to be mixed, handled daily and folded into relaxed domestic routines that reflected post war optimism and changing ways of living.
Kiln stilt marks are visible on the base, consistent with the original firing.
Product Details
| Era | c. 1955 to 1965 |
| Maker | Franciscan Ware |
| Origin | California, United States |
| Form | Saucer or small plate with shallow well and gently flared rim |
| Materials | Glazed earthenware |
| Finish | Aqua and turquoise glaze over a molded swirl and fan relief pattern |
| Marks | Kiln stilt marks to the base, consistent with original firing |
| Condition | Very good vintage condition. Light surface wear consistent with age and normal use. No cracks, chips or repairs observed. Glaze remains glossy |
| Dimensions | To be confirmed |
Why It Belongs in Your Home
The piece works quietly. Its sculptural surface suits use as a saucer, a bread plate or a trinket dish, and the restrained color lets it sit easily in both mid century and contemporary interiors.
It layers well with other ceramics and it stands alone as a subtle design accent on a shelf or a dresser.
It belongs to a moment when American homes valued form, color and usability in equal measure, which is what makes a single Franciscan saucer worth keeping rather than merely using.
Every piece is packed with professional-grade materials: multiple foam layers, double-boxing, directional and fragile handling labels. For large furniture we use custom timber crating. We photograph packing before dispatch and can provide images on request.
White-glove delivery is complimentary within 100 miles of Reno, NV. National shipping quotes provided at checkout. All shipments are photographed and documented. Damage claims must be filed with the carrier; we provide all documentation needed to support your claim.
Local pickup is available at Viridian HQ (Reno, NV) with 2–4 days notice. Contact us to arrange. Visit the Eclection on Tuesdays, 10 am to 4 pm.
All antique and vintage items are sold as described and all sales are final. Each listing includes detailed condition notes and photographs so you can make a fully informed decision. We encourage buyers to ask questions — about condition, dimensions, finish, provenance — before purchasing.
Antiques are irreplaceable and one-of-a-kind. Carrier handling is outside our control once a piece has left our facility, and major carriers including FedEx do not insure antiques. We do everything within our power to ensure safe transit, but cannot accept liability for carrier damage. If damage occurs in transit, we will provide full documentation to support your carrier claim.
Have a question? — we're happy to provide additional photos, condition detail, or discuss the piece directly.
