Exceedingly Rare and Important Multi-Glazed Redware Ring Bottle, Salem, NC origin, late 18th or early 19th century, ring-shaped bottle with attached footed base and pouring spout with semi-rounded mouth, the open midsection surrounded by two incised lines. Surface covered in a heavy, cream-colored slip, decorated with sponged copper and manganese, and covered in a clear lead glaze. This bottle is one of three intact examples of the form known in the work of North Carolina's Moravian potters, its striking glaze, modeled after English wares by Thomas Whieldon, and body style distinctive to this school of artisans. A significant recent discovery in Southern ceramics. Provenance: A recently-surfaced example, which descended in the family of the consignor. Family history indicates this bottle was used during the Civil War by a soldier from Illinois. Literature: For discussion of this form, see Hunter and Erickson, "Making a Moravian Faience Ring Bottle", Ceramics in America 2009. For a photo of the second intact example of this form, a smaller copper-glazed ring bottle, see Hunter and Erickson, fig. 18. Base chips. Tight lines to base and interior of open center. Two small pieces of clay adhered to body during the firing. Typical minor spout wear. A 5/8" surface flake to reverse. A small chip to opening at center. H 7".
