Possibly Unique Presentation Stoneware Batter Pail with Freehand Cobalt Decoration, John Kunsman at the Fulper Pottery, Flemington, New Jersey, 1899, approximately three-quart, ovoid form with Bristol-slip-glazed surface, tubular pouring spout, and original bail handle composed of wire and black-painted wood, the front featuring the incised and cobalt-highlighted inscription "Presented / To / Mr & Mrs T C Alvater / By / John Kunsman / Oct 1st 1899". Decorated at the base of the spout with foliate brushwork. Reverse decorated with a freehand tulip plant design. Additional floral motifs on each side of the vessel. Heavy cobalt highlights to ears as well as the handle, located at the base on reverse. John Kunsman, the maker of this vessel, was Fulper Pottery's master potter and is most well-known for the role he played in the development of the company's art pottery line in the early 20th century. Around the year 1900, Kunsman began experimenting with forms and glazes in the Arts & Crafts style, which were sold to visitors outside of the pottery. His artware, taken by company owner, William H. Fulper II, to the 1904 Louisiana Purchase Exposition, won a prize of honorable mention for their design. This batter pail exemplifies Kunsman's style on the cusp of the company's transition from utilitarian stoneware to modern art pottery. This batter pail is outstanding on a number of levels. The vast majority of Fulper stoneware pieces from this period are advertising jugs, and few batter pails from this factory are known. Its petite, three-quart size is highly unusual among all American producers of this form. The delicate cobalt brushwork adds to its visual appeal and artistry, and the pot achieves a level of historical significance with its inscription from a forerunner in the American art pottery movement. Excellent condition with a small rim chip. H 8".
