Help with Artist Signature

This was bought or gift during a trip in California before 1960s, could be as early as late 40's or 30's. I believe it is a steamer but do not have any other information. Has anyone seen a signature like this? Very difficult to determine any letters to do research.

Thanks for any help

 

Looks like studio pottery. Did you try a pencil rubbing of the mark?

 

Unsuccessful doing a rubbing due to the rough nature of the bottm of the piece. Here are hopefully clearer pictures

 

I'll bet even the artist can't
tell who signed it.............

 

I think the photo is upside-down. First letter a V and last an L?

 

Yes, because the painted strip it's incised on goes from left to right. I see an initial letter "M".

Debora