Early VA Stoneware Jar, Incised "R.W. Lewis," Upper Shenandoah Valley

July 21, 2012 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 61

Price Realized: $977.50

($850 hammer, plus 15% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 12 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.

July 21, 2012 Auction Catalog

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Extremely Rare Early Virginia Stoneware Jar, Incised "R.W. Lewis," Upper Shenandoah Valley origin, circa 1820-1840, approximately one-gallon to two-gallon ovoid jar with small tab handles and semi-squared rim, incised in script on one side "R.W. Lewis" with overlying brushed cobalt highlight. Reverse decorated with a cross or star shaped floral motif. Handles highlighted completely in cobalt slip. We have yet to identify any potter by this name in Virginia, and it is quite possible that this jar was a presentation vessel made for an R.W. Lewis. Aspects of the jar, including the appearance of the clay and salt-glazed surface, are characteristic of many pieces produced in Rockingham and Rockbridge Counties of Virginia. It is likely the jar was made in one of these two counties, or nearby. Provenance: Surfaced in the Blacksburg area of Virginia. Essentially as-made condition with a glazed-over flake to underside of one handle and a smooth chip on underside, which appears to be in-the-firing. H 11 1/2".