Exceptional Oversized Stoneware Harvest Jug with Elaborate Incised Inscription, Inscribed "Eli. H. Arnold. / Jackson Constable.," OH origin, circa 1881, cylindrical jug with semi-rounded spout, two applied open handles, and wheel-thrown and applied tapering spout to shoulder. Surface dipped in a two-tone Albany slip glaze and incised with the inscription, "If you break the snout / of this jug I will break / the snout of you. / Eli. H. Arnold. / Jackson Constable." Eli H. Arnold (1836-1900) was a North Jackson (Mahoning County), Ohio, farmer who was elected constable of the town in April 1881. This was at least in some sense a family pursuit; Eli Arnold's brother, Daniel, had some years prior been constable of nearby Youngstown, holding various law enforcement positions over the years. The 1880 federal census, taken perhaps a year prior to this jug's manufacture, lists Arnold living only three homes away from Francis "Frank" Robbins, the lone potter listed in Jackson at the time. It is highly likely that Robbins, a previously undocumented potter to our knowledge, was responsible for producing this jug. (Little is known about Robbins' potting pursuits, but he was born in 1840 in Trumbull County, Ohio, and is listed in his Civil War enlistment record as a brickmaker. Robbins served as a sergeant in the 15th Independent Battery, Ohio Light Artillery, and was the orderly of General Charles Lowell.) The wonderful inscription seen on this jug, which threatens a broken nose for breaking its fragile applied spout, gives this work a sense of humor and emotion rarely seen in American stoneware. These words, coupled with the vessel's imposing size and sculptural form, create an outstanding example of Ohio stoneware. Also of particular note is the jug's specific tie to the profession of law enforcement, very rarely seen in American stoneware. Provenance: Alderfer Auction, The Estate of Foster & Muriel McCarl, Beaver Falls, PA, December 13, 2012, lot 3268. Excellent, essentially as-made condition. H 16 1/2".
