Rare and Fine Matawan, New Jersey Redware Platter w/ Elaborate Yellow Slip Bird Design

Summer 2023 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 200

Summer 2023 Auction Catalog

Rare and Fine Slip-Decorated Redware Loaf Dish with Bird Motif, Matawan, NJ origin, second quarter 19th century, rectangular dish with coggled edge, the interior decorated in yellow slip with a slip-trailed design of a crested bird with turned head and spotted tail, perched on an undulating vine, bordered by a wavy lines and spotted drape motifs. The overall style of the decoration indicates it was made in the town of Matawan, NJ, from which a body of bird-decorated redware dishes are known. Unusual to this work is its loaf dish form and different details to the bird, including a comb, wider wing, and wider, spotted tail, giving it the appearance of a rooster rather than a songbird. Knife marks from use on interior. A few minor flakes to interior. A 1 1/4" hairline from edge. Rim chips and a 7/8" chip to one corner, the latter primarily visible on reverse. Dimensions: 12 1/2" x 8 1/2".