Very Rare J.E. SIMONS (Thurmont, Maryland) Redware Pitcher by Anthony Baecher

July 16, 2016 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 55

July 16, 2016 Auction Catalog

Exceptional Marble-Glazed Redware Pitcher, Stamped "J.E. SIMONS", attributed to Anthony Bacher, Joseph E. Simons' Big Hunting Creek Pottery, Mechanicstown (now Thurmont), MD, circa 1881-1883, ovoid pitcher with flared collar and heavily-ribbed handle culminating in a triangular terminal. Surface covered in a striking marbled glaze composed of a cream-colored slip with overlying manganese streaks and clear lead glaze. Underside impressed "J.E. SIMONS". The glaze, form, and handle construction of this pitcher, are all earmarks of the Shenandoah Valley master potter, Anthony Weis Bacher, who was active in Winchester, Virginia and Mechanicstown (now Thurmont), Maryland during the second half of the 19th century. The elusive mark on the underside, "J.E. SIMONS", indicates the pitcher was made by Bacher while employed at Mechanicstown's Big Hunting Creek Pottery, during its ownership by coachmaker, Joseph E. Simons. Simons' venture into pottery production was short-lived, and few signed examples have survived. This pitcher is only the second signed example of Simons pottery we have offered, the other being a simple unglazed jar sold in our October 29, 2011 auction. Featuring Bacher's classic, two-tone glaze, this pitcher measures larger than most examples of its style known. Sporadic glaze loss, often found on Bacher's work, more visible on left side. Light wear to rim. Some very minor wear to handle. A 3/4" base chip and minor base wear. H 8 1/4".