Exceptional Three-Gallon Stoneware Crock with Large and Elaborate Bird and Floral Decoration, Stamped "WM. E. WARNER / WEST TROY," New York State origin, circa 1850, cylindrical crock with semi-rounded rim and applied lug handles, decorated with a slip-trailed design of a large crested bird with lavishly-detailed body, perched on a flowering branch. Bird's body features heavy spotting to the chest, neck, and head, stripes to the wing, dashes to the tail, and the highly unusual addition of a curving vine with scrolled leaves, extending from the base of the tail to the neck. This same treatment of heavy spotting and vining to the body can be observed in some of the best examples of J. & E. Norton stoneware from Bennington, VT, indicating the itinerance of a decorator from the Warner shop to the Norton factory. (An important six-gallon Norton crock with large Federal eagle, inscribed "USA," is just one example, which appears to be by the same hand.) Excellent detail to the flowering vine, with scrolled leaves matching those found within the bird, as well as a nicely-detailed blossom with spotted interior. Cobalt highlights to maker's mark and capacity mark. A wonderful folk art decoration, and one of the finest bird designs known by this desirable New York State maker. Two chips to one handle. Colored chips to interior of rim. Otherwise excellent condition.
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