Images(6)

Storage Jar

Date1817-1837

Maker John P. Schermerhorn Pottery ((active 1817-1837))

OriginAmerica, Virginia, Richmond

MediumSalt-glazed stoneware

DimensionsH: 14 5/16"; W at rim: 7"; W: at base: 7 7/16"; W: at widest point: 11 1/2"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2005.900.4

DescriptionThree-gallon ovoid salt-glazed stoneware storage jar with pronounced squared off rim, curved neck with raised rim termination above two concentric incised lines intersecting with highly placed crescent shaped extruded handles on both sides of the vessel embellished with blue floral vine connecting leaves opposite opposing rounded flowers along shoulder as well as inverted incised ship in full sail beneath. The capacity mark "3" is painted in blue under each handle.
Label TextAt first glance, this jar looks much like other storage vessels produced by the Schermerhorn pottery. The shape is similar, and the cobalt-blue floral decoration is almost identical. Upon closer inspection, however, you will see that it has an additional flourish. A ship in full sail has been incised upside down on the side of the pot. After pots are thrown on the wheel, they are left to dry before they are loaded into the kiln and fired. This process allows excess moisture to evaporate from the clay, reducing the risk that the piece will break during firing. It appears that this jar was stored upside down during the drying process and one of the workers embellished the piece with an incised ship.
MarkingsA capacity mark "3" is painted in blue under each handle.

Exhibition(s)