Rare and Important Alkaline-Glazed Stoneware Face Jug, Edgefield District, SC origin, circa 1845-1860, ovoid jug with semi-squared spout, decorated with an applied clay face, including pierced kaolin eyes and open mouth with deeply-carved kaolin teeth, arching eyebrows, nose with deeply-sculpted nostrils, and large ears with tragi. Surface covered in an unusual and appealing mottled alkaline glaze with high gloss, ranging in color from light-celadon to olive-green. During construction, the wall of the jug was flattened to apply the face, a technique common among a number of Edgefield face vessels, even carried on in the 20th century by the Georgia master, Lanier Meaders. Additional manipulation of the jug's surface creates the facial structure, including cheek bones. A wonderfully-glazed example, surviving in remarkable condition. Provenance: Skinner Auction, The Edmund and Jayne Blaske Collection of American Historical Flasks, May 20-21, 1983. Includes Blaske Collection sticker on underside. An in-the-firing separation to right of one eye, which is partially filled with glaze. A 5/8" in-the-firing piece of adhered clay to corner of other eye. A tiny chip to one ear. H 5 3/4".
