Exceedingly Rare and Important Four-Gallon Stoneware Jug with Civil War Soldier Decoration, Stamped "M. & T. MILLER / NEWPORT, PA," circa 1870's, semi-ovoid jug with semi-rounded spout, decorated with three brushed Civil War soldier faces wearing kepi hats, beside a double-blossomed flowering plant. Cobalt highlights to maker's mark and capacity mark. While a small number of other prized, bust-decorated Miller pieces are known, which appear to depict Michael and/or Theophilus Miller later in life, this jug is the first that we have seen depicting three people. The cap-wearing figures are clearly meant to depict soldiers, very probably with the Civil War in mind. While we cannot find any record of the Millers serving during that conflict, the three men depicted here may be family members. An outstanding work by one of Central Pennsylvania's leading and most beloved stoneware manufacturers. Provenance: Reportedly purchased originally from a Miller family descendant in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Excellent, essentially as-made condition with a few in-the-firing flaws, including a smooth in-the-firing contact mark to middle face. H 17".
