Very Rare "Jacob J. Swank / August 18, 1888" Decorated Stoneware Jar

Fall 2025 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 8

Estimate: $2,000-$4,000. About Estimates   About Shipping

Minimum Bid: $500.

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Fall 2025 Auction Catalog

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Very Rare Three-Gallon Jar with Cobalt Floral Decoration, Inscribed "Jacob J. Swank / August 18 / yer(sic) 1888," Stamped "J. SWANK & CO. / JOHNSTOWN, PA," 1888, ovoid jar with semi-rounded rim, and arched tab handles, brush-decorated on the front and reverse with an upswept tulip motif. Dash decoration below each handle and brushed-cobalt "3" below one handle. Leaf-like cobalt highlights to handle terminals. Underside of jar with rare recessed treatment, carved out with a potter's tool after the vessel was in a leather-hard stage, inscribed the script signature and date, "Jacob J. Swank / August 18 / yer(sic) 1888." One of only a few hand-signed examples of Swank stoneware that we have ever offered. Chips and wear to base. One handle with a few small chips and edge wear. Opposing handle with one chip. A chip to interior of rim. Light wear and tiny nicks to rim. In-the-firing spalling to cobalt and some light surface wear. H 12 1/8".



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