Lot #: 177
Price Realized: $2,880.00
($2,400 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.
Important and Possibly Unique Miniature Stoneware Presentation Pitcher, Impressed "LYDIA FERREN," attributed to Frederick Carpenter, Charlestown, MA, early 19th century, finely-potted pitcher of ovoid form with heavily-tooled collar and applied handle on pitcher's right side, the left side impressed with the cobalt-highlighted name "LYDIA FERREN". Base of pitcher with dipped reddish-brown iron oxide decoration. Cobalt highlights around handle terminals. This pitcher is noteworthy on a number of levels. It is one of only two American stoneware pitchers we have seen with a single handle placed on the vessel's side as opposed to its reverse. In addition, its diminutive size, presentation inscription, and employment of both cobalt and iron decorations, are all highly unusual characteristics among known Carpenter products. Census research indicates this pitcher was most likely made for Lydia Raymond Ferrin (1789 - 1890), wife of Samuel Ferrin, a prosperous brick maker in Charlestown. While unsubstantiated, it is plausible that Samuel Ferrin played a role in supplying bricks for the construction of Carpenter's kiln and was gifted with this pitcher for his wife in response. At the time of his death, Ferrin owned five houses in Charlestown, all situated along a street bearing his name. Lydia Ferrin, the pitcher's owner, lived to be 101 years old. Her 100th birthday in the year 1889 was celebrated with great fanfare, described at length in an issue of the Charlestown Enterprise. Referred to as "Old Lady Ferrin" in later years, Ferrin was a well-known and loved member of the Charlestown community. Townspeople recalled her working in her garden and giving flowers and "goodies" to children on their way to school (Ferrin and Brennan, Captain Jonathan Farren of Amesbury, Massachusetts and Some of his Descendants, pp. 90-93). Outstanding in form and rich with history, this little pitcher is one of the most important examples of Carpenter stoneware we have ever offered. Shallow chipping encompassing rim and spout. Otherwise excellent condition. H 4 1/4".
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