Extremely Rare and Important Moravian Fish Flask, Rudolph Christ, Salem, NC

November 2, 2013 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 1

Price Realized: $23,000.00

($20,000 hammer, plus 15% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 11 years old, and the American ceramics market frequently changes. Additionally, small nuances of color, condition, shape, etc. can mean huge differences in price. If you're interested in having us sell a similar item for you, please contact us here.

November 2, 2013 Auction Catalog

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Extremely Rare Large-Sized Earthenware Fish Bottle with Profuse Copper and Manganese Decoration, attributed to Rudolph Christ, Salem, NC, early 19th century, molded bottle in the form of a fish with raised eyes, heavily-scaled body, and fine detail to fins and tail. Bottle lavishly-decorated with streaks of green copper and purplish-brown manganese glaze over a yellow clay ground in the Whieldon style. Surface covered in a clear lead glaze. This recently-discovered example is molded in a larger size than most Moravian fish bottles known, and features a rare and visually-stunning two-color glaze. (The majority of Moravian fish bottles in existence are found in a 4 1/2" size with solid green glaze.) One of the finest examples of this highly-prized Southern form to surface in several years. Provenance: Recently discovered by a New England couple. 3/8" chip and minor 1/4" chip to spout. Other spout wear. Some light wear to surface. Approximately 7" tight horizontal line along base of fish on one side. Glazed surface survives in well-preserved condition with virtually no flaking. L 9 3/4".