Rare and Important Redware Bank with Incised Floral Decoration and Name "ANNA SMITH," Signed "Will Smith / Bridgeton," New Jersey, circa 1875, ovoid bank with button finial and rounded foot, decorated with an incised floral design around the midsection and sawtooth design around shoulder. Incised name "ANNA SMITH" at the top. Bank decorated below incising with an all-around scene in yellow over a dark brown ground. Scene includes a bird and banner with the words "WILL SMITH," a marsh with cattails, and another banner with the town name "Bridgeton." According to M. Lelyn Branin"s The Early Maker"s of Handcrafted Earthenware and Stoneware in Central and Southern New Jersey, potter William Smith of Bridgeton, NJ, had a daughter, Anna C., who was born about 1875. This particular bank was likely made by William Smith as a birth bank for his daughter, Anna, and is possibly unique. An ambitiously-decorated and important example of New Jersey redware. Small finial chip and minor wear. Height 6 1/2". Provenance: Christie"s Sale for The Seamen"s Bank for Savings, March 13, 1991, Lot #14. Ex-Collection Bill Bertoia.
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