Very Rare Salt-Glazed Stoneware Pitcher with Incised Federal Eagle Decoration Signed "Henry Rambo," Newton Township, Muskingum County, Ohio, Dated 1826, large-sized, approximately two-gallon stoneware pitcher with ovoid body, slightly flared collar, and applied strap handle, the rim and shoulder accented with incised bands. Body of pitcher decorated with a large incised design of a Federal eagle, clutching an olive branch in one foot, and an American flag and arrows in the opposite. Eagle features a crest, ringed neck, spread wings embellished with numerous incised feathers, a tail with cross-hatched patterning, and a small garland extending from its beak. A large shield spanning the length of its body includes the date 1826, incised stripes, and impressed circle-within-circle designs representing stars. The same impressed decoration is used to create the eye of the eagle and the stars on the flag it holds. The name of the maker, "Henry Rambo," is incised into the shoulder of the pitcher to the left of the handle. Rambo was born circa 1804 in Ohio, and made this pitcher when he was about 22 years of age. He and his family produced stoneware in Newton Township, located in the pottery hotbed of Muskingum County, for the better part of the nineteenth century. A previously undocumented potter, this is the only surviving piece of Henry Rambo's work we are aware of. Eagle decorations are one of the most prized in American stoneware; the incised design on this pitcher is exceptionally large, and is rarely found on this form. Scattered exfoliation. 1" flake to right wing of eagle. 1 5/8" chip on interior of rim on reverse. A few minor stone pings on interior and exterior of rim. Small, lightly worn area to spout. H 14 1/4".
