Sold! $16,000.
Exceptional Two-Gallon Stoneware Jug with Cobalt Pheasant on Stump Decoration, Stamped "J. & E. NORTON / BENNINGTON, VT," circa 1855, semi-ovoid jug with semi-rounded spout, decorated with a slip-trailed design of a crested pheasant with turned head, perched on stump with ground cover below. Cobalt accents to maker's mark and capacity mark. Among the finest Norton pieces with single pheasant decoration that we have offered, featuring bold slip-trailing and beautiful color. Very nice condition. A 3 1/2" vertical line to shoulder on reverse. Some crazing at base to left of decoration. A minor in-the-firing iron ping near base. Spout with a minor edge chip, a tiny flake to top, and a very minor U-shaped line. A very minor chip and a few minuscule in-the-firing pings to bottom edge of jug. H 14".