Extremely Rare Shenandoah Valley Redware Vase with Eagle Decoration, attributed to J. Eberly & Co., Strasburg, VA, circa 1890, ovoid vase with flared collar, combed body, and distinctive stepped base, the surface covered in a light wash of cream-colored slip and decorated with a heavier slip design of a spread-winged Federal eagle with shield across its chest. Reverse with flowering plant motif, bearing three blossoms in the Strasburg style. Interior and exterior surface covered in a clear lead glaze. Eberly vases of this style rarely come to market. While a small number featuring this form and glaze style are known, this vase is believed to be the only surviving example featuring an eagle design. This motif is consistent with a few other patriotic themes seen in this pottery's work, such as the molded eagles found on its iconic umbrella stands and the employment of a shield-form maker's mark with star on the interior, frequently found on its stoneware products. Provenance: From a Virginia estate. Literature: Illustrated in Comstock, The Pottery of the Shenandoah Valley Region, p. 269, fig. 5.194. Very nice condition with some typical rim wear, minor base wear, and some extremely minor spots of surface wear. H 10".
