Exceptional Five-Gallon Double-Handled Jug w/ Eagle Motif by James Hamilton for W.H. HOLMES / RYE WHISKEY (Pittsburgh)

Spring 2022 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 162

Price Realized: $6,000.00

($5,000 hammer, plus 20% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 2 years old, and the American ceramics market frequently changes. Additionally, small nuances of color, condition, shape, etc. can mean huge differences in price. If you're interested in having us sell a similar item for you, please contact us here.

Auction Highlight: Spring 2022 Auction | Western PA Stoneware

Spring 2022 Auction Catalog

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Exceptional Five-Gallon Double-Handled Stoneware Jug with Stenciled Cobalt Eagle Decoration and Pittsburgh, PA Advertising, Stenciled "JAS. HAMILTON & Co. / GREENSBORO. PA.," circa 1875, large-sized, ovoid jug with tooled spout and two applied handles at the shoulder, featuring a stenciled design of a spread-winged eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch in its talons as well as a banner in its beak, inscribed "JAS. HAMILTON & Co.." Stenciled "GREENSBORO. PA." below. Stenciled above with the advertising, "W.H. HOLMES / RYE / WHISKEY / WINES & C / 117 Water ST. & 154 / FIRST AVE. Pitts." Freehand stripe decoration throughout. Stenciled "5" with flourishes at shoulder. Cobalt highlights to handle terminals. An impressive work, combining excellent form and size, stenciled maker's mark and advertising, as well as the region's iconic eagle motif. Among the finest examples of Pittsburgh advertising stoneware that we have ever offered. Very nice condition with some light wear to surface and cobalt, a surface scratch to right side of jug, and minor nicks to spout. H 19 1/4".