Extremely Rare and Important Early Manhattan Stoneware Presentation Jar, 18th century

March 19, 2016 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 75

Price Realized: $632.50

($550 hammer, plus 15% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 8 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.

March 19, 2016 Auction Catalog

◀︎ Back to Catalog

▶ Login

Extremely Rare and Important Vertical-Handled Stoneware Presentation Jar with Cobalt Floral Decoration, Inscribed "S. Phillips", Manhattan, NY origin, probably Crolius family, second half 18th century, approximately four-gallon, ovoid jar with tooled shoulder, semi-squared rim, and ribbed vertical handles, decorated on the front and reverse with a heavily-slip-trailed foliate design, embellished with spots and dashes on its interior. Inscribed on the front with the slip-trailed cobalt name, "S. Phillips", and on the reverse with the initials, "S P". Slip-trailed cobalt highlights to handle terminals. This jar survives as one of a very few 18th century American stoneware objects featuring a hand-inscribed name. While "S. Phillips" identity could not be determined, it is assumed this jar was made for him rather than by him. The slip-trailed floral design is closely-related to incised designs found on pieces bearing the mark of Clarkson Crolius, Sr. (1773-1843). However, the form and overall style predate Crolius's involvement in the family enterprise. It is possible, therefore, that this example was made by his father, John Crolius, Sr. Coupled with its desirable form is a beautiful light, buff-colored clay with bold slip-trailing. Exfoliation around body of jar, primarily at midsection. Large spider crack on reverse, which continues onto underside where it forms a Y. A 1 1/4" rim chip on side of jar. A 1 1/2" inverted Y-shaped surface line to shoulder on front, probably in-the-firing. A short, glazed-over line in handle. Base chips. Some old paint residue. H 14".