Rare Chicago Redware Ewer with Applied Name, "R.C. MAZER"

July 21, 2018 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 81

Price Realized: $147.50

($125 hammer, plus 18% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 6 years old, and the American ceramics market frequently changes. Additionally, small nuances of color, condition, shape, etc. can mean huge differences in price. If you're interested in having us sell a similar item for you, please contact us here.

July 21, 2018 Auction Catalog

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Rare Glazed Redware Puzzle Jug with Applied Name, "R.C. MAZER", Chicago, IL origin, early 20th century, wheel-thrown, ovoid form with applied curving pouring spout, stepped vertical spout, and applied handle with opening at midsection. Base of handle decorated with a molded and applied acorn-and-oak-leaf motif. Front with applied name, "R.C. MAZER", flanked by stars. Includes original redware stopper. This rare example of Midwestern redware is related to a puzzle mug bearing the inscription, "A.K. Truka / North-Western / Pottery / 5052 W. Lawrence ave / Chicago," and offered in our March 2013 auction. Truka, a Czech immigrant potter, arrived in America in 1890 and began potting in Chicago, first appearing at the 5052 W. Lawrence Ave. address circa 1911, where he was apparently working for a little-documented Chicago manufactory called the Western Pottery Company. This company failed and in September 1912, a team of investors purchased it, renaming it The Northwestern Pottery Company. Richard C. Mazer, a local hotel keeper who had emigrated from Germany in 1881, was the President of this new company, one that would continue at least into the 1920's. It is clear that this well-crafted jug was produced at the Northwestern Pottery, if not by Truka then some other worker there, probably in the early 1910's. Interestingly, R.C. Mazer was shot in 1924 over a dispute with a landlord, but recovered and lived to the age of 82, dying in 1948. A rare example of Midwestern American ceramics. Loss to bottom of stopper. Otherwise excellent condition. H (including stopper) 14 1/2".