Chamber Pot
Dateca. 1815
Attributed to
John Swann
MediumSalt-glazed stoneware
DimensionsOverall: 6 3/8in., 8cm, 9 1/2in. (16.2cm, 3 1/8in., 24.1cm)
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number2009-10
DescriptionSlightly ovoid brown, salt-glazed stoneware chamber pot with narrow base and strap handle. The rim of the vessel coated in a dark iron wash.Label TextChamber pots are rare survivals above ground and American-made examples even more so.
John Swann (w. 1811-1831) was born in 1789 in St. Mary's County, Maryland. He was apprenticed to Lewis Wilson Plum (also Plumb) in 1803 to learn the potter’s trade. Swann began his potting business in 1811 with a financial partner, Jonathon Scholfield. In 1820 Swann advertised specific goods at specific prices including large chamber pots at 2.33/dozen and lesser chamber pots at 1.50/dozen. Swann sold his business to Hugh Smith, merchant, but continued potting for him. Most of Swann's wares were not decorated with cobalt.
ca. 1750
ca. 1710
ca. 1822
1793-1796
1840-1850
1821-1822
ca. 1895
1720-1740
ca. 1865
ca. 1820
1780-1800
1841 (dated)