Exceptional Six-Gallon Stoneware Crock with Elaborate Cobalt Game Bird Scene, Stamped "HARRINGTON & BURGER / ROCHESTER," NY State origin, circa 1852-1854, cylindrical crock with tooled shoulder, applied lug handles, and tall, semi-squared rim, decorated with an extravagant slip-trailed design of a game bird, possibly representing a grouse or quail, depicted with turned head and intricately-detailed body, walking between a palm tree and cattail plant. Shrubs and grasses highlight the ground below and include plants flanking the base of the tree. Slip-trailed "6." to shoulder. Cobalt highlights to maker's mark. An outstanding work showcasing the artistic talents of John Burger, widely regarded as the leading stoneware decorator of 19th century America. This vessel's resplendent, naturalist scene is complemented by a large capacity to the vessel, superb color to the clay and cobalt, and good condition. A faint L-shaped surface line to proper left side of crock's front, extending approximately 9 1/2" in height from shoulder towards base, not visible on interior. An 8 1/2" vertical hairline descending from shoulder towards base on reverse. A faint, minor 1 1/2" line descending from rim on reverse. Remarkably, no chips can be found. Some minor bubbling to cobalt. H 14 5/8".
