Very Rare Molded Stoneware Presentation Hunt Scene Pitcher, Embossed "U.S.R.C. MADISON," probably NJ origin, mid 19th century, ovoid pitcher with relief decoration of hounds battling a boar on one side and hounds taking down a stag on the opposing side. Grapevine decoration to collar. Hound-form handle with incised details to paws. The name, "U.S.R.C. MADISON," is applied in white clay letters across the shoulder, referring to the United States Revenue Cutter James Madison. Exterior surface covered in a reddish-brown glaze. Interior with cream-colored glaze. Underside embossed "B.2." Named for President James Madison, the U.S.R.C. James Madison was a schooner built in 1807 designed for use in the Revenue-Marine, a customs enforcement service. It saw use in the War of 1812, largely in Amelia Island, Florida, Savannah, Georgia, and Charlestown, South Carolina, where it captured a number of British ships. The James Madison was itself captured by the British navy in August of 1812 and sold to be used as a yacht in 1813, when it was renamed Osprey. Made decades after this ship existed, this pitcher was likely made for use by a naval officer who had served on it. Among the large number of block-lettered presentation pitchers known, this work is the first that we have seen made to commemorate a ship. A 2" x 5/8" crudely filled and colored loss to rim. Crazing to interior, not visible on exterior. H 9 1/4".