Very Rare Stoneware Pitcher with Brushed and Slip-Trailed Cobalt Floral Decoration, Stamped "J. YOUNG & CO. / HARRISBURG, PA," circa 1856-1858, finely potted, ovoid pitcher with galleried rim and tooled accents to the midsection and base of collar, decorated with a brushed and slip-trailed design of a double-blossomed tulip plant with looping flourish at center and accents to the interior of the flowers. Brushed swag decoration flanking the spout. Cobalt highlights to maker's mark and handle terminals. This beautifully colored example showcases the New York training of John Young and his partner, Shem Thomas, who worked together at Harrisburg's Filbert Street Pottery from 1856 to 1858. The pitcher's tulip decoration and slip-trailed treatment draw inspiration from the Thompson Harrington pottery of Lyons, New York, where both potters appeared to have learned the potter's trade. Only the second marked John Young pitcher that we have ever offered. Provenance: Recently surfaced in Central Pennsylvania. Excellent condition with a faint horizontal hairline to handle, minor chips to base of rim molding, and a 4 1/4" Y-shaped surface line ascending base on pitcher's proper right side, not visible on interior. H 11 1/2".
