Very Rare Brown Bros. / Long Island Stoneware Jug: "Ask Me To Smile"

Spring 2023 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 11

Price Realized: $13,200.00

($11,000 hammer, plus 20% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: The American ceramics market frequently changes, often dramatically. 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 2023 Auction | NY State Stoneware

Spring 2023 Auction Catalog

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Very Rare Three-Gallon Stoneware Jug with Cobalt Star Decoration, Inscribed "ASK / ME / TO / SMILE," Stamped "BROWN BROTHER , / HUNTINGTON / L.I.," NY State origin, circa 1870-1885, cylindrical jug with tapered spout, decorated with the slip-trailed inscription, "ASK / ME / TO / SMILE," surrounded by five stars. Cobalt highlights to maker's mark and capacity mark. Few of the Brown's epigraph pieces are known. This recently-surfaced jug includes an unusual combination of the Browns' desirable star motif surrounding the slogan. Among the finest examples of Brown family pottery that we have ever offered. Two minor chips to top of spout. A horizontal spider crack at base on reverse. A tiny post-firing nick to base on underside and an in-the-firing chip to underside. An in-the-firing unglazed spot at base on front. H 15 1/2".