Extremely Rare Three-Gallon Stoneware Jar, Stamped “J. MILLER / ALEX,” James Miller, Alexandria, VA, circa 1824-1826, ovoid jar with heavily-tooled shoulder, rounded rim, and applied tab handes. Front decorated with a large brushed cobalt 3. Cobalt highlights around handles. Deeply-impressed below rim with the maker’s mark of early Alexandria, VA potter, James Miller. An interesting characteristic of all Miller jars is the uneven handles, which are noticeable on this example. Early in his career, Miller worked at the Alexandria shops of Henry Piercy and Lewis Plumb. In 1820, he opened his own pottery in Georgetown, only to return to Alexandria in 1824. One of less than ten signed stoneware examples known. Provenance: Recently discovered in Leesburg, VA. Large reglued section to front. Cracks extending partway up front from base. Cracks and some small reglued pieces to underside and base. Base chips. 2 1/4” chipped section to rim above one handle.