Very Rare Two-Gallon Stoneware Jug with Elaborate Deer Scene and New York State Advertising, Stamped "J. &. E. NORTON / BENNINGTON, VT," circa 1855, semi-ovoid jug with semi-rounded spout, decorated with an elaborate slip-trailed pastoral scene of a stag with turned head and heavily-spotted body, standing on a shrubbed ground with fence and tree in the distance. Lightly impressed above with the maker's mark, "J. & E. NORTON / BENNINGTON, VT," and the extensive merchant advertising, "GILES, & CO' / DEALERS IN / HARD-WARE, IRON, CROCKERY, GROCERIES, / PAINTS, WOODEEN(sic)-WARE STATIONARY &C &C / VARIETY STORE CHERRY-VALLEY." This unusually-elaborate, four-line advertising gives us a wonderful glimpse into the variety of goods general stores of the period offered. Note the reference to salt-glazed stoneware with the word, "CROCKERY." The combined stamping of both the maker's mark and the merchant's advertising is rarely seen on Norton stoneware pieces; typically, this factory chose to mark their work with only one of these stamps. A jar with reclining lion decoration, lot 8 in Crocker Farm's Summer 2021 auction, also bears advertising for Giles & Co. of Cherry Valley, located near Cooperstown. The figural motifs found on both works suggest Giles requested unusually fine and decorative ware from the Nortons. Easily noticed in this piece is its exceptional color, displaying glossy, enamel-like cobalt against a cream-colored ground. The combined artistic quality of the design, color, and rare impressions make this jug a noteworthy example of an iconic Norton motif. Tiny spout nick. Stone ping on right side of jug. Two small base chips. Lightly stained area on reverse. H 13 3/4".
