Stoneware Gemel Jug with Initials "J B," John Brelsford, Philadelphia, PA

January 30, 2010 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 178

Price Realized: $4,600.00

($4,000 hammer, plus 15% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 15 years old, and the American ceramics market frequently changes. Additionally, small nuances of color, condition, shape, etc. can mean huge differences in price. If you're interested in having us sell a similar item for you, please contact us here.

Auction Highlight: January 30, 2010 Auction | Philadelphia Stoneware

January 30, 2010 Auction Catalog

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Extremely Rare Stoneware Gemel Jug with Cobalt Floral Decoration and the Initials "J.B.," made by John Brelsford, Philadelphia, PA origin, circa 1846-1857, conjoined jugs separated by a wall of clay, having tooled spouts and a ribbed handle on reverse. Profusely-decorated with a brushed cobalt flowering plant design involving numerous clover or tulip-shaped blossoms. The initials "J.B." brushed in cobalt script on the shoulder, referring to the potter, John Brelsford, active on a site at New Market Street and Germantown Road in Philadelphia, PA, circa 1846-1857 (see Susan H. Myers, Handcraft to Industry, p. 40). A similarly-decorated stoneware cooler impressed with Brelsford's maker's mark is also pictured on page 40. Handle terminals brushed with thick cobalt circles. An extremely rare form in American stoneware, particularly in areas south of New York. This gemel is the only example produced in Phiadelphia we are aware of. Two spout chips, measuring 5/8" each. H 7 1/2".