Extremely Rare Six-Gallon Stoneware Crock with Cobalt Rooster Scene, Stamped "JOHN BURGER / ROCHESTER", New York State origin, circa 1860, large-sized, cylindrical crock with tooled shoulder and semi-squared rim, decorated with an artistically-slip-trailed design of a rooster with turned head, standing between a tree and cattail plant. The fine rendering of the bird includes a large comb, wattle, heavy shading to the upper head and breast, and superb detail to the plumage throughout. Stylized ground cover appears below. Shoulder slip-trailed with the number "6.". Light cobalt highlights to maker's mark. The rooster motif remains one of the rarest and most-sought-after figural designs employed by John Burger. This outstanding example, despite its condition issues, typifies Burger's exuberant, painterly style. Provenance: A fresh-to-the-market example, which descended in a Michigan family. Missing both handles. Exfoliation throughout surface, more significant on reverse. Areas of staining to surface. H 14 1/4".
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