Extremely Rare Triple-Handled Stoneware Harvest Jug with Cobalt Decoration and Inscription, Midwestern origin, probably Columbiana County, OH, circa 1880, ovoid form with applied wide and narrow pouring spouts and flattened top, the shoulder and top fitted with three applied handles. Front of jug inscribed with the slip-trailed name, "Petter Yerian." According to 1850-1880 U.S. Federal Censuses, Peter Yerian, born circa 1828, was a farmer born living in Columbiana County, Ohio. Reverse decorated with a slip-trailed rose motif. Shoulder of jug intricately-decorated on the front and reverse shoulder with a spotted drape motif in slip-trailed cobalt. Handles decorated with slip-trailed stripes. Cobalt decoration is applied over a slip-coated surface. Interior of jug coated in Albany slip. This harvest jug is the first American example that we have seen made with three handles. An outlandish, sculptural form with high folk art appeal, featuring strong decoration. Provenance: A fresh-to-the-market example, which recently surfaced in Pennsylvania. Excellent condition with a small chip to narrow spout. H 10 1/4".
