Extremely Rare and Important S. LOY (Solomon Loy, Alamance County, NC) Stoneware Pitcher

Spring 2023 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 71

Price Realized: $4,500.00

($3,750 hammer, plus 20% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: The American ceramics market frequently changes, often dramatically. 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.

Spring 2023 Auction Catalog

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Exceedingly Rare and Important Cobalt-Decorated Stoneware Pitcher, Stamped "S. LOY," Solomon Loy, Alamance County, NC, circa 1855, ovoid, thin-walled pitcher with flared collar, brush-decorated with an arched cobalt highlight over the maker's mark, including a three-petaled flower blossom at the top of the arch and an additional petal-like stroke to its left. Brushed cobalt highlights to handle terminals. Surface covered in a heavy salt glaze. Proficient in both slip-decorated redware and salt-glazed stoneware production, Solomon Loy ranks among the state's most artistic and influential potters. This work is the only signed pitcher by his hand that we have seen. The lavish, flowing salt runs on the vessel's right side are a hallmark of his stoneware pieces. A professionally-restored, approximately 3" x 1" section to left side of rim, including a curving crack descending from it. A 1 1/2" hairline from rim on pitcher's right side, partially visible on interior. Two other shorter, faint surface lines from rim on pitcher's right side, extremely minor and likely in-the-firing. H 11 1/2".