Exceedingly Rare and Important Manhattan Stoneware Advertising Jar, attributed to David Morgan or Thomas Commeraw, Manhattan, N.Y., circa 1797-1819, small, narrow jar with recessed opening on top, impressed in large letters "DANIEL / JOHNSON. AND Co No 24 / LUMBERSTREET / N. YORK." The color, font, and use of the stamp "N. YORK," indicate the maker of this jar was either David Morgan or Thomas Commereau, potters active in Manhattan circa 1797-1819. According to Ketchum"s Potters and Potteries of New York State, Commereau established his operation near Corlear"s Hook, along the East River, in 1795. Morgan, who had been apprenticed to Manhattan potter, John Remmey, Jr., since 1795, took over Commereau"s establishment in 1796, when Commereau left the city. However, Commereau returned to the pottery in 1802 and began working alongside Morgan for another year. Manhattan business directories list Morgan only one more time, active in 1809; Commereau is listed during certain years through 1819. One of the earliest known American stoneware advertising pieces. One of a very few extant examples of early Manhattan advertising. The form of this jar, perhaps used to hold oysters or fruit, is likewise rare for potters of this period and region. Early Manhattan stoneware was some of the first stoneware collected and studied during the early 20th century, and remains some of the most admired today. Near mint condition; light chipping to base. Height 6".
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