Extremely Rare J. SWANN / ALEXA Half-Gallon Cobalt-Decorated Stoneware Jar (Alexandria, VA, c1820)

Spring 2022 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 286

Price Realized: $4,200.00

($3,500 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.

Auction Highlight: Spring 2022 Auction | Alexandria / DC Stoneware

Spring 2022 Auction Catalog

◀︎ Back to Catalog

▶ Login

Extremely Rare Half-Gallon Cobalt-Decorated Stoneware Jar, Stamped "J. SWANN / ALEXA," Alexandria, VA origin, circa 1820, finely-potted, ovoid jar with footed base, tooled shoulder, and semi-rounded rim, decorated with five stylized floral motifs brushed around the shoulder. This example, potted in an exceptional, small size, is one of a relatively small number of cobalt-decorated pieces by John Swann known. It is believed that he began adding brushed cobalt decoration to his work in 1819, as suggested by a local newspaper advertisement that announced "a great improvement to his ware." Provenance: A recently-surfaced example. A large Y-shaped line on underside, which does not appear to extend through to interior. Short, minor surface lines to underside at edge. Traces of old gray paint to interior of jar and exterior base, unrelated to any sort of restoration. H 7 1/2".