Exceptional Alkaline-Glazed Stoneware Pitcher with Iron Decoration, attributed to John Davis Leopard at the Prothro Pottery, Rusk County, TX, mid 19th century, wide-bodied pitcher with short, flaring collar, the surface coated in a light-gray alkaline glaze and decorated with dramatic dipped iron slip decoration to the upper and lower body, including slip runs ascending the front. Glass drips to the midsection and interior rim reveal blue-and-white rutile accents. This work ranks among the most strikingly decorated examples of 19th century Texas stoneware known. Its wonderful iron slip treatment changes color from a bold, metallic red to mottled brown depending upon its concentration and interaction with the alkaline glaze, giving the surface a dynamic, fluid appearance. Earlier in life, Leopard famously decorated his alkaline-glazed ware with swathes of iron slip at his pottery in Bacon Level, Randolph County, Alabama during the 1830s. After arriving in Rusk County, Texas by 1850, he continued this artistic treatment, working for a period at the pottery of an associate from Bacon Level, James Prothro. This pitcher was likely made at that operation. As both Leopard and Prothro were born in the Edgefield District of South Carolina, the influence of this region's potting tradition is evident in their work, seen in some of their forms and glazes. In this case, Leopard draws from the Edgefield style by applying a contrasting slip. A masterwork of Texas stoneware, combining decoration, form, and condition. Very nice condition. Some wear to rim, spout, and edges of handle. Handle with a hairline through midsection and tiny chip. H 9 3/4".
