Exceedingly Rare Two-Gallon Stoneware Pitcher with Cobalt Floral Decoration, Stamped "T.H. WILLSON & CO / HARRISBURG. PA," circa 1852-1855, stylishly-potted, ovoid-bellied pitcher with tooled body, elongated collar, and stepped rim molding, the body brush-decorated with a sinuous stem bearing leaves and four flower blossoms. Brushed cobalt highlight to the name, "T.H. WILLSON & CO," as well as cobalt accents the maker's mark and distinctive two-gallon capacity mark. This work is the first pitcher that we have offered produced in Harrisburg prior to the partnership of Cowden & Wilcox. As Thomas and Daniel Willson were the first stoneware producers in Harrisburg, this work is also one of the earliest pitchers from this prolific potting city known. Featuring a shapely form and strong decoration, this work combines both aesthetic appeal and extreme rarity. Easily among the most elusive early-period Harrisburg stoneware pieces that we have offered. Very nice condition with a thin 2 1/2" crack to underside, extending 5 1/4" up right side of pitcher. Otherwise minor flaws. Some crazing to underside, not visible on interior and possibly in-the-firing. A shallow 5/8" in-the-firing flake to rim on reverse, a tiny chip to side of rim, and a 2" line to top edge of rim. H 13 1/2".
