Exceedingly Rare and Important Stoneware Jug with Profuse Incised Figural Decoration, Northeastern U.S. origin, circa 1850, squat-shaped jug with semi-rounded spout, decorated around the body with deeply-incised and cobalt-highlighted designs; the front features the bust of a gentleman in buttoned coat and shirt with upturned collar and cravat, smoking a pipe, depicted with raised arm and pointed finger; above appears two elaborate flowering stems surmounted by a ring-necked bird feeding at a blossom; the right side of the jug depicts a large design of a standing stag with turned head, its front leg outstretched above a heavily-branched tree; the left side of the jug depicts additional flower stems with leaves, a central tulip, and a daisy above. Among the most exuberantly-decorated pieces of American stoneware that we have offered, this vessel also sports an outlandish form presumably for use on a carriage or ship, its low, wide shape reducing the possibility of it tipping over. The coverage of the design over the body of the piece and variety of motifs depicted are noteworthy. The image of the deer, with its dominating size, crosshatched body, and unusual stance, ranks among the most sensational folk art representations of the animal that we have seen on a piece of American stoneware. A painstakingly-executed work and true masterpiece of incised decoration. Provenance: Ex-Allan Katz Americana, Woodbridge, CT. Excellent, essentially as-made condition. H 9" ; Diam. 9 3/4".
