Exceptional Two-Gallon Stoneware Crock with Cobalt Fish Decoration, Stamped "H.M. WHITMAN / HAVANA, NY," circa 1860-1862, cylindrical crock with tooled shoulder, semi-rounded rim, and applied lug handles, decorated with a slip-trailed design of a fish with upswept jaw, large circular eye, and curved and horizontal details to the body. The rigorous application of the slip on this example gives a sense of motion to the design. An unusually clean piece, exhibiting crisp, enamel-like slip-trailing, even glazing, and superb color. Cobalt highlights to maker's mark and capacity mark. One of only two Havana fish-decorated pieces that we have ever offered. Provenance: Purchased by the consignor from Joel and Betty Schatzberg in the late 1980s. Excellent, essentially as-made condition with very minor staining and a small salt drip at base. H 8 3/4".