Exceptional Stoneware Presentation Bank with Cobalt Floral Decoration and Outstanding Form, Inscribed "D F," probably Athens, New York, origin, circa 1840, extravagantly-potted, ovoid bank with stepped form, pointed finial, and pierced embellishments to each tier, the lower tier of the bank decorated with various brushed floral motifs, along with the brushed script initials, "D F". Each tier of bank further decorated with incised and cobalt-highlighted banding and cobalt spots. Bottom tier of bank additionally ornamented with two rows of coggling in a "fish scale" pattern. Middle section decorated with a single band of the same coggling. Cobalt highlight to finial. Carved horizontal coin slot above bottom tier. Among the finest Northeastern U.S. stoneware banks that we have ever offered, remarkable in its form, lavish decorative treatments, and condition. Provenance: A fresh-to-the-market example, recently discovered in a Connecticut home. Excellent condition. Smooth chips to top edge of coin slot, possibly in-the-making. A few minor in-the-firing flaws: a minor in-the-firing iron ping to body, a small in-the-firing chipped area to top tier, and a small in-the-firing base chip. H 7 7/8".
