Outstanding Three-Gallon Stoneware Jar with Profuse Freehand Cobalt Tulip and Stripe Decorations, Stenciled "EAGLE POTTERY / James Hamilton & Co. / Manufacturers / Greensboro, Pa.", circa 1870, semi-ovoid jar with tooled shoulder, semi-rounded rim, and applied lug handles, decorated with an undulating freehand vine bearing tulip blossoms, above the large stenciled signature, "EAGLE, POTTERY. / James Hamilton & Co. / Manufacturers / Greensboro, Pa.". Front additionally decorated throughout with seven freehand cobalt stripes. Freehand cobalt "3" under one handle. Cobalt highlights to handle terminals. This jar's appealing combination of elaborate stenciled and freehand decorations typifies the finest Western PA stoneware of the period. The lack of empty space at the base of the jar led the decorator to brush its three-gallon capacity under one handle, an unusual treatment. Very nice condition with a faint hairline on underside (not visible on interior), two chips to one handle, a salt drip under same handle, three small chips to shoulder molding, and some light wear to surface. H 14".
