Very Rare Six-Gallon Stoneware Jar with Elaborate Cobalt Floral Decoration Surrounding the Date 1857, Stamped "J. SWANK & CO. / JOHNSTOWN, PA," large-sized ovoid jar with squared rim and ribbed handles, decorated on both sides with a two-stemmed tulip plant culminating in large, multi-petaled blossoms flanking the date "1857." One handle underscored by five horizontal dashes. Underside of opposite handle impressed with maker's and six-gallon capacity marks. Handle terminals accented with stylized tulip blossoms. Very early date for Swank stoneware, made during the first full year of stoneware production by brothers, Jacob and Hiram Swank, in Johnstown, PA. This example was manufactured before the Swanks established their Kernville operation, at a pottery purchased in 1856 by Josiah Swank, which was previously owned by the firm Hamilton and Pershing (Schaltenbrand, Big Ware Turners, p. 100). Provenance: Descended in a Berlin, Somerset Co., PA, family, and never offered for sale since its manufacture. Large section reglued at base / underside. Thin spidering line in surface extends from base up much of jar's surface, but is not visible on interior. Inverted 3 1/2" Y-shaped separation line from rim on interior, which occurred in the firing. All that is visible of this flaw on the exterior is a 1 1/2" faint line. H 16 1/2".
