Elaborate Redware Inkstand Inscribed "D. WARDELL's / INK STAND / JUNE 18th 1831"

November 2, 2013 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 195

Price Realized: $2,530.00

($2,200 hammer, plus 15% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 11 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.

November 2, 2013 Auction Catalog

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Outstanding Glazed Redware Presentation Inkstand with Stepped Form and Incised Bird and Floral Decorations on Underside, Inscribed "D, WARDELL'S / INK STAND / JUNE 18th 1831," American, possibly New York State, wheel-thrown inkwell composed of three attached chambers with highly-unusual stepped form. Each section fashioned with pen holes, the top tier with central spout for ink. Shoulder and spout with chip-carved embellishments, the holes around the top with carved details in the form of stars. Side of top tier with stylized incised design of a quill. Additional incised wavy line decoration to top and middle tiers. Base with sawtoothed chip carving accented with incised dots. Underside incised with bird and flowering plant designs above above and beside the large, block-letter inscription "D, WARDELLs / INK / STAND / JUNE 18.Th / 1831". Surface covered in a speckled blackish-brown, lead-and-manganese glaze. Exceptional form with meticulous decorative treatments throughout, coupled with a rare presentation inscription. This inkstand may have been made for David Wardwell (1791-1878), who served in the 18th and 20th districts of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1831 to 1837. Wardwell also served as a member of the New York State Legislature and as a state court judge. If the inkstand was made for Wardwell, the 1831 date on the underside would correspond with his first year serving in the U.S. Congress. Very nice condition. Chip to top edge of bottom tier, two minor chips to edge of middle tier, and a small nick to edge of top tier. Other minor wear to inkstand, including some typical, unobtrusive base wear. A glaze scratch to middle and bottom tier. H 5 1/4" ; Diameter (at base) 4 1/4".