Rare Three-Gallon Stoneware Pitcher with Profuse Cobalt Floral Decoration, attributed to John P. Schermerhorn, Richmond, VA, circa 1830, large-sized, ovoid-bodied pitcher with tooled shoulder, canted rim molding, and ribbed strap handle, the front decorated with an elaborate vine bearing six groups of leaves and six oval flower blossoms. Additional blossom decoration to each side of collar and horizontal daubs along the spout, including a highlight to the interior edge of the spout itself. Much of handle decorated with a heavy cobalt highlight, including a circular accent at the lower terminal. Exceptional in form and size, this pitcher also features one of the largest Schermerhorn flowering vine motifs we are aware of. The color of the cobalt slip is exemplary, creating one of the most vivid designs we have seen on Schermerhorn's work. This pitcher ranks as one of the finest examples of Richmond stoneware we have offered in the last decade. Provenance: Recently discovered in Maryland. A sealed top-to-bottom crack on right side of pitcher, extending across underside, where it forms a Y. A 4" horizontal hairline at base on reverse. An additional, approximately 2 1/2" hairline from rim on right side of pitcher. Rim chips. Chipping along spout. H 14 3/4".
