Unique and Important Stoneware Flask with Large Cobalt Signature "David Parr / May 5 1823," Baltimore, MD origin, tall, flattened flask with heavily-tooled and cobalt-highlighted spout, featuring the large slip-trailed signature "David Parr / May 5 1823" on both sides. The maker of this flask, David Parr (1786-1832), was one of Baltimore's most prolific stoneware potters during the second and third decades of the 19th century. He can be credited with popularizing elaborately-brushed cobalt floral motifs in the Mid-Atlantic, rarely seen in such profuse application until his time. Similar stoneware decorations, which appeared in Virginia and Philadelphia during the 1820s through 1850s, were influenced by Parr's work. Many of the decorations found of Smith, Milburn, Butt, and Walker stoneware from the D.C. area appear to have been based on Parr's designs. The same can be said of the prolific tulip motifs of Philadelphia, used by the Remmey family, among others. David Parr was also the uncle of the well-known potter, David Parr, Jr., who established a pottery in Richmond, VA during the 1850's and decorated his ware with his uncle's tulip motifs. Parr, Sr. died of cholera in 1832, leaving the running of his shop on the corner of Eden and Dulaney Streets to his wife, Margaret. This flask is the only hand-signed example of Parr's work known, and may have been his personal drinking vessel. Excellent, as-made condition. H 8 1/2".
