Heatwole, Rockingham County Pottery

May 21, 2005 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 274

Price Realized: $13,750.00

($12,500 hammer, plus 10% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 19 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: May 21, 2005 Auction | Virginia Stoneware

May 21, 2005 Auction Catalog

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Very Rare and Important Shenandoah Valley Stoneware Crock with Cobalt Inscription "Dry River Pottery 1876," attributed to John D. Heatwole, Rockingham County, VA, circa 1876, three-gallon straight-sided crock with squared rim, tooled shoulder, and handles, decorated around with the slip-trailed cobalt inscription "Dry River Pottery 1876". Cobalt "3" under each handle to indicate the capacity. Attributed to Mennonite potter, John D. Heatwole, who potted along Dry River in Rockingham County for several decades during the second half of the 19th century. The cobalt inscription on this jar is possibly unique. (The only other known jar with similar writing is a large cream jar made during the partnership of Heatwole and potter Joseph Silber; that example reads "Heatwole & Silber / Dry River, VA / 1866.") The fact that this crock includes the word "Pottery" adds to its significance and suggests that for a time Heatwole referred to his operation as "Dry River Pottery." Desirable centennial date. Crack at base on "Dry River" side extending onto underside and partway up dated side, forming a "Y". Lines at rim. A few chips on one handle. Chip on opposite handle. Height 13 1/4".