H. SMITH & CO. (Alexandria, VA) Stoneware Jar

July 19, 2008 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 222

Price Realized: $4,140.00

($3,600 hammer, plus 15% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 16 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: July 19, 2008 Auction | Alexandria / DC Stoneware

July 19, 2008 Auction Catalog

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Rare One-Gallon Cobalt-Decorated Stoneware Jar with Initial "M" on Underside, Stamped "H. SMITH & CO.," Alexandria, VA origin, circa 1825, ovoid jar with arching tab handles, rounded rim, and tooled shoulder, decorated with a brushed cobalt floral motif consisting of a circular blossom with leafy trails surrounding the maker's mark. Reverse decorated with a brushed leaf design. Underside incised with the letter "M" in script. We believe this initial refers to the jar's maker, probably Benedict C. Milburn, who worked with potter, John Swann, and potted for merchant Hugh Charles Smith. To corroborate a Milburn attribution, variants of the distinctive design on this jar can be found on much later products impressed with Milburn's maker's mark. Heavy chipping to one handle. Chips to opposite handle. Two tiny base nicks. H 9 1/2".