STRASBURG, SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA DECORATED STONEWARE PITCHER, salt-glazed, "2" gallon capacity mark, low-shoulder form with incised shoulder ring, elongated neck with incised ring, rounded rim, grooved strap handle, and flared foot. Exuberant brushed cobalt decoration comprising four sunflowers with striped centers supported on two leafy stems, cobalt dashes flanking spout, additional cobalt at handle terminals. Attributed to the pottery of William H. Lehew (b.c. 1825-aft. 1891). Circa 1860-1875. 13 1/4" H, 6" D rim.
Literature: Form as Comstock - Pottery of the Shenandoah Valley Region, p. 297, fig. 5.274, and capacity mark as p. 295, fig. 5.264. See JSE Americana Auction, 11/15/14, lot 20 for a signed example of identical form.
Provenance: The collection of Ronnie and Neal Kite of Esmont, VA.
Catalogue Note: Floral decoration of such bold and exuberant nature is rarely found on Strasburg pottery. This pitcher was undoubtedly a special order or presentation piece and not a standard production object.
Condition
Undamaged except for a short light hairline off rear rim adjacent to handle.