Question:
My dad has a chicken sitting on a nest, yellow glaze, very good condition…Red Wing pottery #249 on the bottom. Size – about 10-12" diameter. Any value? Dean

Answer: Your 249 chicken is a casserole. Red Wing also made an identical but smaller sized marmite (individual casserole) marked number 250, as well as a marmite and casserole in the shape of a fish. These pieces were among a large group of colorful pieces sold as Gypsy Trail Hostess Ware. During World War II most metals were reserved for the war effort and not available for consumer use. Red Wing Potteries and other companies produced household items made of pottery or glass to fill the void. The rooster and fish marmites and casseroles were introduced in 1942 and made until around the end of World War II. They were made in several colors including blue, yellow, turquoise, pink, green and ivory. Value for a yellow 249 rooster casserole in excellent condition would be $ 50-60. Stains, chips, cracks, and hairlines will reduce the value significantly.

Larry