Exceedingly Rare Miniature Alkaline-Glazed Stoneware Pitcher, Inscribed "Mag Margaret Jane Reams," attributed to Pottersville Pottery, Edgefield District, SC, circa 1835-1840, squat-shaped, bulbous pitcher with flared rim, incised around the midsection with the cursive inscription, "Mag Margaret Jane Reams," the surface covered in a gray-green alkaline glaze. Featuring extraordinary size and unusual form for this pottery, this work was clearly made for a member of the local Reames family, who appear on the same page of the 1840 federal census as proprietors of the Pottersville Stoneware Manufactory, Nathaniel Ramey and Jasper Gibbs. While the penmanship on this pitcher does not appear to be in the hand of David Drake, who worked at Pottersville during the time period, it is possible that the vessel was inscribed by the enslaved craftsman, Harry, a contemporary of Drake at this site. Made without a handle, this miniature could be easily held and poured by gripping it around the shoulder and the presumed thought is that it was given to "Mag," short for Margaret Jane Reams, as a present while still a child. A miniature "U" or "C" stamp appears to be impressed at the base. As few hand-inscribed Pottersville pieces have survived, this work is regarded as a significant new discovery from this key Southern stoneware producer, its appeal enhanced by its rare form and size. Provenance: Recently surfaced in the Southern U.S. Excellent condition with a few minor chips to interior of rim. H 3".
