Overview
This is a substantial 6-gallon salt-glazed stoneware crock featuring a bold, hand-painted cobalt blue bird perched on a stylized scroll.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is a substantial 6-gallon salt-glazed stoneware crock featuring a bold, hand-painted cobalt blue bird perched on a stylized scroll.
Story
Fort Edward, New York, was a powerhouse of the American stoneware industry in the late 1800s, perfectly positioned on the Hudson River to receive clay and ship out finished goods.
Maker / Origin
William and Gilbert Ottman operated their pottery in Fort Edward during the golden age of American stoneware, taking over the works from earlier famous potters like Haxtun & Co.
Condition & Value
The crock shows a prominent vertical hairline crack running down the left side and some minor 'pitting' and chips around the base consistent with heavy use. The cobalt decoration is exceptionally crisp and well-centered.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375