Rare and Fine Diminutive Redware Pitcher with Three-Color Slip Decoration, American, possibly Salem, NC, late 18th century, thin-walled, ovoid pitcher with footed base, flaring collar, and delicate rounded handle, the surface covered in a yellowish slip, decorated with sponged spots of copper and manganese slip and covered in a clear lead glaze. Additional copper daubs to handle. Interior covered in a clear lead glaze over an orange ground with iron flecking. While this specific form has not been documented in the Moravian redware production of North Carolina, its raised lower terminal, likely inspired English china, is typical of early works from this school. Its beautiful glaze is, moreover, very typical of early Moravian redware from North Carolina, one which is inspired by the work of English potter, Thomas Whieldon (1719-1795). Related glaze schemes have been documented on a number of examples from Salem and Mount Shepherd, North Carolina, dating to the late 18th century. As an example, a Salem, NC ring jug sold in Crocker Farm, Inc.'s March 25, 2017 auction bears nearly identical spotted slip decoration applied with a sponge. A 1 5/8" x 1" flake and a minor flake to belly of pitcher. Heavy chipping to rim and additional wear to rim and spout. A spot of wear to tip of lower handle terminal. H 3 5/8".
