Rare Three-Gallon Alkaline-Glazed Stoneware Modified Jug, Inscribed "Lm - March 9 1858/ Dave," David Drake at Lewis Miles's Stony Bluff Manufactory, Horse Creek Valley, Edgefield District, SC, 1858, rotund jug, incised at the shoulder, "Lm - March 9 1858 / Dave," along with two vertical slash marks and three punctates, representing three gallons. Surface covered in a mottled, olive-brown alkaline glaze with green accents to the shoulder and appealing green runs to the left side and reverse. Two large, circular stamps at the base, possibly executed with a coin, are previously undocumented in Dave's work. This jug lost its spout and handle during use, a common occurrence on stoneware from this region. The spout area was rounded out and fitted with an oversized wooden stopper during the 19th century for it to be used as a jar. Includes 3 3/4" x 3 1/2" 19th century hand-carved wooden stopper. Among the best examples of modified stoneware that we have ever offered, this work emphasizes the necessity of utilitarian pottery in its day and the willingness of those to "make do" with damaged pieces. Provenance: A recently-surfaced example, which descended in the family of the consignor. Missing spout, the damage area having been rounded out during use, with a tight 5 1/4" crack and tight 3 1/2" crack from rim. An in-the-firing ping to front and reverse. Missing handle. H 12".
