Exceptional Four-Gallon Stoneware Jug with Cobalt Double Rooster Decoration, Dated 1864, Stamped "C.E. PHARIS & Co. / GEDDES. N.Y.", 1864, large-sized, ovoid jug with semi-rounded spout, decorated with an elaborate slip-trailed design of two roosters with incised beaks and heavy feather detail, flanking a plant atop a stylized ground, composed of numerous wavy trails and spots. Inscribed with the underscored date, "1864", below the decoration. Slip-trailed at the shoulder with a number 4 including heavy underscoring below. An additional incised and cobalt-highlighted "4" appears above the decoration. Cobalt highlights to maker's mark. This outstanding jug ranks as one of the finest examples of Geddes, New York stoneware we have ever offered. Its striking figural decoration most likely depicts sparring game cocks, as cockfighting was a popular pastime in 19th century America. The appeal of this work is enhanced by the large size of the jug itself and the Civil War era date at the base. A 1 3/4" x 1" area of shallow exfoliation to right side of jug touching rooster's tail. Other tiny, minor flakes to surface. A 2 1/2" in-the-firing contact mark / flake to shoulder on right side of jug. A shallow 1 1/4" flake to right upper edge of spout, which most likely occurred in the firing. An iron ping to tail of left rooster. Base chips. Some light fry to cobalt spots on ground. H 17".
