Rare and Fine Four-Gallon Stoneware Jug with Cobalt Deer Scene, Stamped "J. & E. NORTON / BENNINGTON, VT," circa 1855, semi-ovoid jug with semi-squared spout, decorated with a large slip-trailed design of a standing deer with turned head and robust, spotted body, flanked by a stump and pine tree on hills behind it, the entire scene accented with stylized ground cover throughout. Cobalt highlight to maker's mark and capacity mark. This jug, potted in a scarce large size, features bold, crisp slip-trailing and excellent coverage of the design across its front, spanning 11" tall by 11 1/2" wide along the curve of the vessel. The style of the decoration indicates it was executed by German immigrant, John Hilfinger (1826-1888), responsible for most of the extravagant slip-trailed designs produced at the Norton pottery during this period. This jug's excellent size, large-scale design, and superb color/contrast, make it a noteworthy example of an iconic American stoneware image. Provenance: Waasdorp American Pottery Auction, March 15, 2008, lot 120. Includes old wooden stopper. Spout with a 2" chipped section and other minor wear. An in-the-firing contact mark to pine tree. A small piece of adhered clay beside pine tree. A small in-the-firing contact mark (flake) near proper right edge of decoration and a tiny surface flake behind one of deer's rear feet. An in-the-firing contact mark to reverse including a 1" surface chip. Horizontal in-the-firing lines at base. Some short, vertical in-the-firing lines at bottom edge. Light staining to one side. H 18 1/4".
