This is a beautiful example of mid-century modern studio ceramic stoneware by Mark Zamantakis. It has a gorgeous glaze and a somewhat Asian feel which is not surprising since one of Zamantakis places of study was Kyoto, Japan and the Mingei, Korean, and Chinese aesthetics are an important theme in his work. Mark was born in Utah in 1926 and received his BFA in 1950 and MA in 1951 from the University of Denver. He studied under John Billmyer, Charles Raymus and Richard Sorby. He then taught at Cole Junior High and George Washington High School from 1960-1985 as well as Northern Colorado, Colorado Women’s College, and the Jewish Community Center. His work is in the permanent collections of The Vance Kirkland Museum and Denver Art Museum. This piece is in fabulous condition circa 1960s and an awesome example of not only mid-century pottery but of what Zamantakis is most known for, his functional stoneware pieces. You should make this one yours.