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Presented here for the first time in two centuries is the lost story of New York City potter Thomas W. Commeraw, a key early African-American figure whose identity slipped through the fingers of history. Rediscovered by the author in the first years of this century, Commeraw stands as one of the most fascinating of all historic American decorative artists: an abolitionist, activist, highly influential craftsman and, ultimately, the hopeful founder of a new African republic. Hardbound with cloth cover and dust jacket. 311 pages. 589 images. 8 1/2" x 11".

Topics include:

• Commeraw's fascinating life story, from childhood to death.
• A comprehensive discussion and illustration of Commeraw's pottery, made from the mid-1790's to late 1810's.
• Commeraw's abolitionism, political activism and role as an important local free black figure.
• A thorough history of New York City stoneware.
• An in-depth breakdown of the work of other New York City stoneware manufacturers, including Clarkson Crolius, Sr.; John Remmey III; and David Morgan.
• Commeraw's harrowing experiences on the west coast of Africa.

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Our Spring 2025 auction features numerous museum-quality examples of antique American stoneware & redware. 300 lots laid out in full color across 180+ pages, the current catalog is NOW SHIPPING!

Priority mail shipping is a flat rate of $8.95, regardless of quantity ordered.

This single-owner estate auction highlights the legacy of one woman's lifelong passion for American ceramics. The legendary collection of Dr. Carole Carpenter Wahler has few rivals past or present, and this sale will present over 300 lots of antique stoneware and redware including a number of famous works with exhibition and publication histories. Our catalogs make great reference guides on American ceramics, and this one in particular has been designed to highlight the legacy of Dr. Wahler's collection and research. Now shipping!