Extremely Rare and Fine Stoneware Figure of a Dog on Base with Cobalt and Albany Slip Decoration, probably Midwestern origin, possibly Texarkana Pottery, circa 1880, the molded figure of dog with collar, upswept tail, and lop ears, seated on a molded base with scalloped edge and raised foliate decoration. Surface of dog and base lavishly decorated with cobalt and Albany slip. Exceptional form and color. The use of Albany slip and cobalt decoration is most well-known among Midwestern pottery, namely that of Ohio. However, the appealing light coloration of the clay and vibrance of the cobalt suggest the figure may be a Texarkana Pottery product. A cobalt and Albany slip decorated snake flask, sold by Crocker Farm, Inc. in May 2005, and potentially also a Texarkana piece, exhibited similar high-quality coloration, as have several Texarkana pig bottles. This example is one of the finest American stoneware dogs we have seen. Provenance: Surfaced many years ago at a Kentucky estate auction. Dog in as-made condition. Base with two chips to scalloping, one of which is quite small. H 5 3/4" ; W 4 1/2".
