Very Rare J. CLARK & CO. / TROY Stoneware Water Cooler w/ Incised Bird Decoration

October 26, 2019 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 217

Price Realized: $767.00

($650 hammer, plus 18% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 5 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.

October 26, 2019 Auction Catalog

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Extremely Rare Three-Gallon Stoneware Cooler with Incised Bird Decoration, Stamped "J. CLARK & CO / TROY," NY State origin, circa 1826-1828, highly-ovoid, jug-form cooler with tooled spout, circular bunghole, and open handles, decorated on the front and reverse with an incised and cobalt-highlighted bird design. The design on the front features a narrow-headed bird with long tail, perched on a series of leaves. The design on the reverse depicts a bird with turned head and distinctive tail incising, perched on a leaf. This second motif is closely-related to designs found on pieces from the mid 1820s produced in Herbertsville, NJ. Cobalt highlights additionally appear at the handle terminals and maker's mark. The shoulder features the short-lived, Troy, NY stamp of J. Clark & Company, which is considered rare of any form. This mark, coupled with jug's stately, open-handled cooler form and two incised bird motifs, create a work that combines both scarcity and strong decorative appeal. Left handle restored. A 3" line on underside, extending 7" up reverse side of cooler. H 15".