Rare SMITH JR (Samuel Smith, Knox County, TN) Salt-Glazed Stoneware Jar

Winter 2026 Auction of the Carole Wahler Collection

Lot #: 30

Price Realized: $1,020.00

($850 hammer, plus 20% buyer's premium)

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Winter 2026 Auction Catalog

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Rare Salt-Glazed Stoneware Jar, Stamped "SMITH.JR," Samuel Smith Pottery, Knox County, TN, circa 1820-1830, ovoid jar with footed base, arched lug handles, and rounded rim with inner flange for lid, the surface dipped in a reddish-brown iron solution and covered in a light salt glaze. Impressed with "SMITH.JR" maker's mark below one handle. In her notes, Wahler states the following about this jar: "It had a purely Knox Co. history. Largest Smith I have seen or heard of." Exhibited: Tennessee Turned, Earthenware and Stoneware Made in East Tennessee 1800-1900, Museum of East Tennessee History, May 16-October 30, 2011. Provenance: Crocker Farm, Inc., November 1, 2008, lot 297. A thin J-shaped crack descending approximately 5 1/2" from rim. Chips on inner rim for lid. H 16 1/2".