Unusual probably NJ Stoneware Jug w/ Incised Decoration Inscribed "I W" and "B R + A N"

July 22, 2017 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 271

Price Realized: $1,534.00

($1,300 hammer, plus 18% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 7 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 22, 2017 Auction Catalog

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Rare Three-Gallon Stoneware Presentation Jug with Incised Decoration, probably New Jersey origin, circa 1815, ovoid jug with footed base, heavily-tooled spout, and shoulder embellished with heavy sine-wave incising, the front decorated with an incised and cobalt-highlighted plant design featuring a fan-shaped blossom and circular fruit. Incised below with the initials, "I W", and surrounded by a semi-circular band of cobalt. Shoulder decorated above with a stylized cobalt leaf. Reverse decorated below the handle with an incised foliate design in the Manhattan style, along with the initials "BR" and "AN", all surrounded by a semi-circular band of cobalt. Brushed cobalt stripes to spout and handle along with highlights to the handle terminals. Interestingly, the decoration on the jug's front is modeled after a design found on the iconic Elizabeth Crane stoneware punch bowl, among other works, which were produced at an as-yet-unindentified pottery, presumably from Manhattan. In this case, the decorator's hand is cruder. While the incised initials on the jug's front may refer to the piece's mark, the incised initials on the reverse suggest the jug was made as a presentation piece, possibly for a wedding. Provenance: Property of a New York State collector. Base and spout chips. Otherwise excellent condition.