Very Rare J. BELL (John Bell, Chambersburg or Waynesboro, PA) Tin-Glazed Redware Jar w/ Profuse Decoration

Spring 2022 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 263

Price Realized: $960.00

($800 hammer, plus 20% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 2 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.

Spring 2022 Auction Catalog

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Very Rare Tin-Glazed Redware Jar with Profuse Cobalt Floral and Sponge Decoration, Stamped "J. BELL", Chambersburg or Waynesboro, PA, circa 1828-1840, ovoid jar with footed base, combed incising to shoulder, and semi-squared rim, the surface dipped in a tin-augmented slip and lavishly decorated in cobalt with brushed tulips between sponged banding. Interior and jar and exterior of rim covered in a reddish-brown lead-and-manganese glaze. Shoulder impressed with early "I. BELL" maker's mark. The glaze treatment on this jar, based on Dutch faience, is highly-prized for its beauty, rarity, and sophistication. Among those pieces bearing this glaze is Bell's earliest signed work known, also the earliest dated piece of American tin-glazed pottery, the iconic inkstand in the collection of Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, inscribed "Winchester / March 12th / 1825". A restored 1 3/8" hole in underside. A thin crack on underside, extending several inches up side of jar. Chips and wear to rim. Heavy chipping to base. Glazed surface survives in excellent condition. H 8 3/4".