Images(9)

Storage Jar

Date1846 (dated)

Maker James Pickney Shepherd

OriginAmerica, Alabama, Randolph County, Rock Mills

MediumAlkaline-glazed stoneware

DimensionsOH: 16 3/8"; OW: 11 1/2" (at widest point)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase, C. Thomas Hamlin III Fund

Object number2022.900.6

DescriptionDouble-handled storage jar: ovoid body rises to narrow, slightly flared mouth; two open strap handles applied to the high shoulder, one on each side of the neck; covered allover with drippy alkaline glaze over metallic brown glaze. The shoulder stamped "JS" for James Shepherd and inscribed "1846" (with backwards "4"). Indention to body causing firing crack (only visible on the interior) just below the waist on the side with potter's marks and date.
Label TextRecords are unclear, but James Pickney Shepherd was born in Georgia or North Carolina in the 1820s. He is listed as a farmer or potter alternating in the 1850, 1860, and 1870 US censuses. He may have trained or worked with his neighbor Samuel Duncan who was a potter from Edgefield, SC. (See Brackner, Folk Pottery of Alabama, p. 250) This storage jar is currently the earliest dated piece of Alabama pottery known and is a stunning and important documentary example.
InscribedStamped "JS" and inscribed "1846" (with backwards "4") on high shoulder.
MarkingsStamped "JS" and inscribed "1846" (with backwards "4") on high shoulder.