Important and Possibly Unique One-Gallon Stoneware Jar, Inscribed "N. York PBH / Nov. 29 / 1797", attributed to the Crolius or Remmey Families, Pot Baker's Hill, Manhattan, NY, 1797, ovoid jar with footed base, heavily-tooled shoulder, and open loop handles, decorated on both sides with a purplish slip inscription, probably composed of cobalt and manganese, reading, "N. York. PBH". Underside of handles inscribed "Nover. 29" and "1797". Additional purplish slip highlights to handle terminals. This jar is highly-significant in its abbreviation, "PBH", referencing the "Pot Baker's Hill" on which Crolius and Remmey family potteries sat for several decades of the 18th and 19th centuries. It is believed to be the only stoneware product known with an inscription indicating its manufacture on this historic site, which is regarded, essentially, as the birthplace of American cobalt-decorated stoneware. Additionally important is the jar's inscription, "N. York", as few hand-inscribed pieces indicating a New York City origin are known, as is its 1797 date. Few examples of American stoneware have survived with 18th century dates, this jar serving as a key relic of pre-1800 pottery production in Manhattan. Provenance: Property of a New York State collector. Ex-Leigh Keno. Numerous shallow base chips. A shallow 1" rim chip. Two other minor rim chips, which appear to be in-the-firing. H 9 1/4".
