Exceptional One-Gallon Stoneware Pitcher with Cobalt and Iron Federal Eagle Decoration, Dated "1820," Ohio River Valley origin, 1820, finely-potted pitcher with narrow base, highly-ovoid body, tooled shoulder, and short collar, decorated with a large design of a Federal eagle with shield across its chest, applied in widely-brushed strokes of cobalt and iron slip. Reverse of pitcher boldly-dated "1820" in large iron-slip numbers. A large looping flourish, also brushed in iron slip, appears to the right of the date on the reverse/side of the pitcher. Additional crosshatched and figure eight designs appear at the base of the pitcher. Brushed cobalt highlights the handle terminals. This pitcher was produced early in the introduction of cobalt-decorated stoneware to the rapidly-developing Ohio River Valley. Related works include an outstanding large-sized cooler with incised Federal eagle motif, also highlighted in blue and brown slips. Combining a large two-color-slip figural design, extremely early date, and stylish form, this pitcher is among the most important stoneware pieces from the region to come to auction in years. Few pieces of this age and origin exhibit decorative quality of this level, the heavy-handed brushwork and juxtaposition of colors creating a wonderful folk art representation of our national symbol. Restoration to an approximately 4" x 1 3/4" section of the rim, extending from reverse to side of pitcher. An additional minor restored chip to rim on reverse. Restored chips to interior of rim. A 3/4" filled and colored base chip. A tiny unrestored base chip. A small in-the-firing chip to edge of handle. H 11".
