Very Rare One-Gallon Stoneware Presentation Jug with Incised Bird Scene, Inscribed "1892 / Compliments of T.D. Conner / From Grand Chain Pottery / August 14th 1892 / Drawn by A.B.", Grand Chain, Pulaski County, Illinois origin, 1892, cylindrical jug with semi-squared spout and Albany-slip-glazed surface, featuring elaborate incised decoration of a dentil-molded border surrounding profuse scalloped line decoration and a bird holding a banner inscribed "Compliments of T.D. Conner", above the words "From Grand Chain Pottery / August 14th 1892 / Drawn by A.B.". Additionally incised on the shoulder with the date "1892". The highly-unusual inscription, "Drawn by A.B.", suggests a sense of pride as an artist on the part of the decorator. Little is known about Grand Chain Pottery, located in Pulaski County, Illinois, just twenty-five miles south of the major pottery center of Anna. This jug is the only signed example produced at this site we have been able to locate. Its painstaking incised decoration is noteworthy. Chips to spout. A shallow base chip on reverse. Wear at base of handle. H 10".
