Very Rare J. SWANK & CO. / JOHNSTOWN Stoneware Pitcher, c1860

Summer 2025 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 13

Estimate: $3,000-$5,000. About Estimates   About Shipping

Minimum Bid: $1,000.

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Summer 2025 Auction Catalog

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Very Rare One-Gallon Stoneware Pitcher with Cobalt Floral Decoration, Stamped "J. SWANK & CO. / JOHNSTOWN," PA origin, circa 1860, thin-walled, ovoid pitcher with flared collar, brush-decorated with two-stemmed plant bearing tulips in the Germanic style, flanked by swags on the left and right. Swag and dash decoration to spout and graduated dash decoration to collar. Base of handle decorated with a brushed flower, the upper terminal accented with a brushed stripe. This pitcher is among the finest examples of Swank stoneware that we have ever offered. It was made early in the family's foray into stoneware production by brothers, Jacob and Hiram Swank, at a pottery previously owned by the firm Hamilton and Pershing, purchased in 1856 by Josiah Swank (Schaltenbrand, Big Ware Turners, p. 100). This work predates pieces made at the Swanks' more-prolific Kernville site, featuring a different clay body. different maker's mark, and fine decoration in the Hamilton & Pershing style. Provenance: A recently-surfaced work, which descended in the family of the consignor, whose family arrived in the Johnstown area in the mid 19th century. Very nice condition with two spout chips, two small rim chips, and a 2 1/4" line on underside, not visible on interior. Traces of old aqua paint around bottom edge. H 11 1/4".

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