Kay Finch Ceramics: California Figurine Pottery
Kay Finch (1903-1993) was a celebrated California ceramist who operated Kay Finch Ceramics in Corona del Mar from 1939 to 1963. She was renowned for her charming, whimsical animal figurines and decorative pieces that epitomized the California ceramic aesthetic of the mid-20th century. Her work ranged from small dog and cat figurines to large elaborate pieces, all distinguished by exceptional modeling, soft pastel glazes, and expressive character.
History & Production
Katherine Finch studied sculpture at Ward Belmont College and later worked under several California sculptors. She and her husband Braden opened their studio pottery in 1939, quickly gaining recognition for animal figurines. By the mid-1940s, the pottery employed up to 60 workers. Kay personally modeled every original from which molds were made. Production ceased in 1963 when the Finches retired, though Kay continued creating one-of-a-kind pieces. Freeman-McFarlin Potteries later produced some of her designs.
Identification & Marks
- Ink stamps: "KAY FINCH CALIFORNIA" in various configurations
- Incised marks: "Kay Finch" script signature, sometimes with model numbers
- Paper labels: Original foil or paper labels (often lost)
- Model numbers: Incised or stamped numbers correspond to known production lists
- Freeman-McFarlin pieces: Marked with that company's name, not Kay Finch
Popular Lines & Figures
- Dogs: Cocker spaniels, Yorkshire terriers, Afghan hounds, poodles -- her most collected category
- Cats: Persian cats, playful kittens in various poses
- Birds: Owls, parakeets, roosters, and fantasy birds
- Pigs: "Smiley" and "Winkie" pig pairs are iconic pieces
- Religious Figures: Madonna, angels, nativity sets
- People: Peasant couples, Asian figures, Godey ladies
- Specialty Items: Santas, Easter pieces, wall pockets
Auction Price Ranges
| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Small dog figurines (5-6 inches) | $40 - $150 |
| Large dog figurines (10+ inches) | $150 - $600 |
| "Smiley" and "Winkie" pig pair | $200 - $500 |
| Cat figurines | $50 - $300 |
| Bird figures | $40 - $250 |
| Peasant boy/girl pairs | $100 - $400 |
| Large Santa figures | $200 - $800 |
| Nativity sets, complete | $300 - $1,200 |
| Rare/experimental pieces | $300 - $1,500 |
| One-of-a-kind studio pieces | $500 - $3,000 |
Condition Factors
Fingertip damage and ear/tail chips are common on figurines and significantly reduce value (30-50%). Original pastel decoration should be intact -- pieces that have been repainted or touched up lose considerable value. Crazing is uncommon on Kay Finch pieces due to the clay body used; its presence suggests possible reproduction. Check thin protruding elements (ears, tails, flower petals) carefully for repairs.
Collecting Tips
Dog figurines remain the most popular and competitive category. Matched pairs (like Smiley/Winkie) are worth more as sets. Large pieces over 12 inches are generally rarer than small ones. The soft pink, blue, and green pastel color palette is most characteristic. Watch for Freeman-McFarlin productions of her designs, which are collectible but less valuable than original Kay Finch Ceramics pieces. Condition is paramount with these delicate figurines -- patience in finding undamaged examples is rewarded.