Extremely Rare Two-Gallon Stoneware Jug with Profuse Cobalt Grapes Decoration, Stamped "M. & T. MILLER / NEWPORT, PA," circa 1870, cylindrical jug with semi-squared spout, the front lavishly decorated with a very large brushed cluster of eight grapes hanging from a leafy stem, embellished with two corkscrewing vines. Cobalt highlights to maker's mark. This outstanding example is illustrated in Phil Schaltenbrand's book, Big Ware Turners. The caption reads, "2-gallon jug, stamped M&T MILLER / NEWPORT, PA. Miller's 'fancy' decorations are among the finest in the state" (Schaltenbrand, p. 85). Stoneware produced at the Newport, Pennsylvania, pottery of brothers, Michael and Theophilus Miller, Jr., is considered some of the most desirable of the region. The firm's brushwork shows the clear influence of the Cowden & Wilcox Pottery in Harrisburg, with perhaps a bolder, more artistic flair. Some of the Millers' finest work include decorations that appear to dominate the front of the pot, consuming much of the clay surface. This jug is no exception. Relatively few examples of Miller stoneware are known bearing decorations other than foliate or floral motifs. While others may exist, this jug is the only example of signed M. & T. Miller stoneware with grapes decoration we have seen. It ranks among the finest Miller family products to come to auction in years. Includes antique wooden stopper. Literature: Phil Schaltenbrand, BIG WARE TURNERS, p. 85. Excellent, essentially as-made condition with a shallow chip to edge on underside.
