Exceedingly Rare and Important One-Gallon Stoneware Jug with Elaborate Incised Decoration of an American Warship, Stamped "N. CLARK & CO. / MT. MORRIS," New York State origin, circa 1835-1846, ovoid jug with squared spout and applied handle, decorated with an incised and cobalt-highlighted design of an American warship, detailed with a large American flag flying atop a central mast with ladder. A second American flag flies at the stern and three other flags extend from two other masts and the bow of the ship. Six indented cannon ports with incised borders decorate the ship's side. Dramatic, heavily-incised waves give the design a sense of movement. Brushed cobalt "1" to left of decoration. Incised decorations of this quality are rarely found on jugs of such a small size. The sailing ship motif is a rare, but well-known, decoration in American stoneware, prized for its aesthetic value, scarcity, and representation of a bygone era. We believe this jug is one of the most outstanding examples of American stoneware known with this iconic design. Provenance: Part of a private collection for the past thirty years. Literature: Illustrated in American Stoneware by William C. Ketchum, Jr., page 5. Mint condition. H 11 1/2".
