How to Identify Hull Pottery Baskets

Look for characteristic features of fakes. Examine the base of the basket. If this area appears smooth with no markings, the basket is likely a fake.

Check markings on the base for Hull manufacturing labels. Look at the base of the basket. You should find depressions on the base in the form of a pottery mark. These marks vary throughout the years of Hull's production, but each authentic Hull basket contains a factory mark.

Consult a reference to verify the mark on the base of your basket. Guides are available online and in books. Make sure the Hull mark on your basket falls into a category of those produced by the company.

Check for the quality of the basket. Hull is known for its high-quality art pottery. If your basket feels extremely lightweight or if the painting appears to be sloppy, it may be a fake.

Examine the glaze. Hull collectors often admire the pottery its matte glazes and soft pastel hues, although a few of the collections featured glossy surfaces or bright colors. Ensure that your piece is authentic by noting the glaze and color against those produced by Hull. If your basket displays a color not manufactured by the company, it is not authentic. Use a Hull reference to obtain glaze specifications.

Look for a serial number. All authentic Hull baskets bear a serial number. Make sure your basket has a both manufacturer's mark and a serial number on the base.

Check the model of your basket. Use a Hull reference to determine if the shape of your basket was manufactured by the company.

Combine your information. Verify that the model, glaze color, serial number and pottery mark all originate from the same period of Hull pottery production.