Extremely Rare Five-Gallon Open-Handled Stoneware Jug with Cobalt Floral Decoration, Stamped "HM&T. MILLER," Newport, PA origin, circa 1870, ovoid jug with tooled shoulder, semi-rounded rim, and thin strap handles, brush-decorated with a leafy horizontal stem bearing three flowers with elongated stamens. Cobalt highlights to maker's mark, capacity mark, and handle terminals. This jug is the first example of stoneware bearing this stamp that we have seen as well as the first Newport stoneware jug featuring this capacity and handle construction. The mark likely refers to the partnership of brothers, Henry, Michael, and Theophilus Miller, used prior to the establishment of the well-known partnership, M. & T. Miller. The 1870 U.S. Federal Census lists Henry, age 33, Michael, age 25, and Theophilus, age 22, all living as potters living next door to each other in Newport, Pennsylvania. Jeanette Lasansky notes in her book, Made of Mud, "A single piece has H.M. & T. Miller in script. It may represent a brief period about 1870 when Henry, Michael, and Theophilus Jr. were potting together, or 1880- c.1895 when Henry Markel and his brother-in-law Theophilus Miller were working together" (Lasansky, p. 39). An important work from one of Central Pennsylvania's most prized potteries. One handle restored. Significant restoration to top of spout. Old paint on opposite handle, though handle remains unrestored. Some fry to cobalt. Some staining. H 16 1/2".
