Exceptional Diminutive Stoneware Churn with Cobalt Floral Decoration, Inscribed in Cobalt "Roseville Ohio" and "Charlie Melick", Roseville, Perry County, Ohio origin, circa 1875, well-potted churn with ovoid body, footed base, tooled collar, and ribbed lug handles. Decorated on the front with the brushed cobalt inscription, "Roseville", above the incised and cobalt-highlighted name, "Charlie Melick", along with freehand stripes and distinctive floral motifs in the Ohio style. Reverse inscribed "Ohio" above two additional floral designs, the first depicting a blossom emanating from a stem with smaller buds, the second featuring a large blossom extending from a curved stem with large pointed leaves. A Charles Melick, aged 2, is listed in the 1870 Federal Census for Perry County, Ohio, with a father whose occupation is listed as "Deals in Stoneware." This churn was probably made as a gift for young Charlie at some point in the 1870's. This churn is a noteworthy example in terms of its size alone. The addition of a presentation inscription indicating its owner and city of origin add significantly to its rarity and decorative appeal. One of the finest examples of Ohio stoneware produced in the Muskingum and Perry County areas to come to auction in recent years. Excellent condition with only very minor flaws. Two innocuous chips to one handle. Two very tiny nicks to opposite handle along its thin raised molding. A few minor nicks to rim area. H 10".
