Images(10)

Cooler

Dateca. 1825

OriginAmerica, Ohio

MediumSalt-glazed stoneware

DimensionsOH: 13 3/16 in.; Diameter at widest point of body: 10 3/8 in.

Credit LineMuseum Purchase, The Friends of Colonial Williamsburg Collections Fund and C. Thomas Hamlin III Fund; and Partial Gift, Robert R. Hunter, Jr.

Object number2018.900.2

DescriptionBarrel-shaped stoneware cooler divided into three sections by incised lines encircling the body in imitation of barrel hoops. Stamped and incised decoration on the front of the cooler above the spigot including a relief molded and applied portrait face of a man with stamped floral designs on either side, above an incised fylfot and leaves, above additional incised decoration. All of the designs filled with cobalt except the face which is highlighted with cobalt in the hair and eyes.
Label TextMade around 1825 in Northern Ohio, possibly in the Akron area, the stamped decoration around the portrait on this monumental cooler relates to at least one other piece that has been attributed to the Atwater Pottery. More research may allow us to more precisely attribute the piece and even identify the face portrayed in the portrait.

The distinctive decoration on this piece suggests that it should be easily attributable to a particular pottery or region. However, attribution of unmarked wares can be challenging.
ProvenancePartial Gift, Robert R. Hunter, Jr. Purchased with funds from The Friends of Colonial Williamsbug Collections Fund and C. Thomas Hamlin III Fund.