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Fantastic early ovoid stoneware jug with large stylized incised flower. Made in New York or New England. Albany slip glaze. The potter’s finger prints can be seen at the base where the jug was held when it was dipped into the glaze. Applied handle. Nice small size. Heavy base wear indicates many years of use. A wonderful primitive piece of American folk art with great visual appeal.

Typically, this type of earlier incised stoneware was decorated by the potter who made the piece. Towards the mid-19th century, stoneware manufacturers began hiring decorators, often women and children, to execute the more popular cobalt designs that were replacing the earlier incised decorations.

A few thoughts on stoneware: Stoneware was originally designed as utilitarian objects. Typically, these pieces were put into service for many years. As such, stoneware will generally show signs of heavy wear and usage. Some chips and cracks are usually in evidence, and serve as reminders that stoneware was first and foremost meant to be functional. These factors should be taken into account when evaluating a piece.

Provenance: Purchased at a Crocker Farm stoneware auction a number of years ago.

Date: 1830

Size: 8 3/4″ tall

Condition:  Excellent. A few small unimportant flakes on the mouth.

Price: SOLD

Shipping: SOLD