Rockingham County, VA Stoneware Jar, attrib. J.D. Heatwole

November 1, 2008 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 249

Price Realized: $3,565.00

($3,100 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: November 1, 2008 Auction | Virginia Stoneware

November 1, 2008 Auction Catalog

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Extremely Rare Stoneware Squat Pot with Cobalt Inscription, attributed to J.D. Heatwole, Rockingham County, VA, circa 1850, highly ovoid jar with semi-squared rim and ribbed lug handles, decorated with the cobalt inscription "M Huston / you found / that Jar" on one side, and on the reverse with "It hurts my fingers". The "Mr Huston" mentioned on the jar probably refers to David W. Huston, who appears in the 1850 U.S. Census as a farmer living near Heatwole, or possibly another member of the same family of Rockingham Co. farmers. We believe this jar offers a rare glimpse into the life of Heatwole, that it may refer to a comical episode that occurred between Heatwole and Huston, revealing a light-hearted side to Heatwole otherwise unseen in his work. Shenandoah Valley stoneware with personalized inscriptions are considered very rare. Discovered in Texas. In-the-firing loss to one handle. Chip and small nick to opposite handle. 1/2" hole in underside with flake on interior. Three chips and small nick to molding at base of collar. Two shallow, minor base chips. H 7 1/2".