Extremely Rare Stoneware Jug with Incised Owl Decoration, probably Manhattan, NY, possibly John Remmey III, circa 1810, ovoid jug with heavily-tooled neck, decorated with an incised and cobalt-filled design of a fat-bodied owl perched on a flowering branch. While most incised bird designs depict a bird from a side view, showing the bird's profile, this decoration presents the owl's entire face, with two large, round eyes, small beak, and arched lines above its eyes. The entire body is further accented with numerous small feather strokes. Incised owl decorations in American stoneware are quite rare. Making this jug even more significant is the fact that it is the first example we have seen with a strong Manhattan attribution. The form, handle construction, and color, are all typical of Manhattan, NY stoneware made between 1800 and 1820. Our opinion is that, when considering all known Manhattan potters of this period, the jug was most likely made by someone at the shop of John Remmey III. An outstanding design with a good folk art quality about it. Fine scattered flaking to right side of jug. 1 3/4" x 1 1/4" base flake. Minor base chip to reverse.