Unusual Redware Book-Form Inkwell Inscribed "W. R."

November 3, 2018 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 281

Price Realized: $1,062.00

($900 hammer, plus 18% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 6 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 3, 2018 Auction Catalog

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Very Rare Glazed Redware Book-Form Inkwell, Inscribed "W.R.", American, 18th or early 19th century, slab-built inkwell in the form of a book with incised binding, the top with two carved ink holes encompassed by a scrolled vine design. Interior is fashioned with a wall separating the two wells. Incised on underside with the initials, "WR". The form, style of penmanship, and incising on this example indicate an early origin, possibly dating to the 18th century. The fact that the initials are inscribed on the underside suggest that they refer to the inkwell's potter and not its owner. Although the famous Poor Potter of Yorktown, VA, William Rogers (active 1720-1745), could be listed as a possible maker, no examples of this form, or with similar incised decoration, have been found in his work. A lack of wear to the two original holes, and the addition of a wall on the interior, indicate that this form was made as a rare "double-welled" inkwell, and that these holes did not serve as a openings for a well and sander to be placed. This analysis is corroborated by the vessel's small size. Edge chips and a loss to one corner. L 3 3/4" ; W 2 1/2" ; H 1 7/8".