1839 Richmond, VA Stoneware Jar, attrib. J.P. Schermerhorn

March 8, 2008 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 254

Price Realized: $3,335.00

($2,900 hammer, plus 15% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 16 years old, and the American ceramics market frequently changes. Additionally, small nuances of color, condition, shape, etc. can mean huge differences in price. If you're interested in having us sell a similar item for you, please contact us here.

Auction Highlight: March 8, 2008 Auction | Virginia Stoneware

March 8, 2008 Auction Catalog

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Very Rare Three-Gallon Stoneware Jar with Cobalt Date "1839," attributed to John P. Schermerhorn, Richmond, VA, ovoid jar with tooled flaring collar and applied lug handles, decorated on one side with a vine of cobalt leaves and circular flowers. Reverse decorated with a cobalt "3" underscored by a brushed S-shaped flourish, possibly used to represent the name "Schermerhorn". Further decorated on the same side with the brushed cobalt date "1839" within a scalloped border accented with tassel-like brushwork. This jar is one of a very few dated Schermerhorn pieces known. It also exhibits some of the strongest, boldest cobalt floral decoration to be found on examples of James River stoneware. Recently discovered at a Virginia sale, painted completely black. 1 1/2", 3/8", and 1" long rim chips. 4" hairline from rim, through one handle. 1" indented touch mark on front. Y-shaped hairline on underside, continuing up 1" onto one side of jar and 6 1/2" up side of jar under handle. Lines do not appear to go through to interior, and jar rings true. H 14".