Extremely Rare James C. Mackley, Mechanicstown, MD, 1876 Redware Presentation Pitcher: "Hot Whiskey Punch"

Fall 2023 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 321

Price Realized: $1,680.00

($1,400 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.

Fall 2023 Auction Catalog

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Exceedingly Rare Glazed Redware Presentation Pitcher, Inscribed "Hot Whiskey Punch / Dr. J.D. Logan / Balt- 1876 / From J.F.P.," Signed "James C. Mackley / Mechanicstown," Mechanicstown (now Thurmont)," MD, 1876, squat-shaped, ovoid pitcher with short collar, beak-like spout, tooling to shoulder and collar, and ribbed handle, incised at the shoulder with the inscriptions, "Hot Whiskey Punch" and "Dr. J.D. Logan / Balt 1876 / From J.F.P." Underside incised "James C. Mackley / Mechanicstown." Surface covered in a reddish-brown lead-and-manganese glaze. Made for Baltimore dog show judge, Dr. J.D. Logan, this centennial-dated work features an outstanding English-style form differing markedly from the style of Mackley's German-born mentor, Anthony W. Bacher. Signed examples of Mackley's work are very rare. The fact that this example includes not only the name of the beverage it would hold, but also a presentation inscription (for an owner outside of the Thurmont area no less) is highly unusual. Minor spout and rim chips. A minor worn spot below rim on exterior. A few small worn spots to interior of collar. An in-the-firing contact mark below "H" in "HOT." Hairlines in underside, partially visible on interior, including a few extending a short distance onto base. A 1 1/4" flake to underside at edge and three other small base chips. A small spot of glaze loss to handle. H 7".