bearing the 6 gallon capacity and maker's marks of a short-lived partnership between potter, James H. Hamilton, and someone named Pershing. Their signature stamp is one of the largest and most elaborate in all of American stoneware, featuring the partners' names and town of origin in an oval with various artistic flourishes. Pieces signed "Hamilton & Pershing" are very rare, as this operation lasted only three years, between 1852 and 1855. In 1855, Hamilton sold his share of the Johnstown business to the Swanks and returned to Somerfield, where he began worked for his father-in-law, James Black, once again.

This example has several stripes of cobalt underlining the maker's marks and cobalt at the handle terminals. The form is a desirable, tapered cream jar type, with handles that are large and ribbed, arching below a squared rim. The contrast between the clay and cobalt on this piece is excellent. While any piece marked "Hamilton & Pershing" is a rare and desirable find, this jar is truly exceptional because of its monumental, six gallon size.