Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic American two-gallon salt-glazed stoneware storage crock featuring the iconic stenciled cobalt blue maker's mark of A.P. Donaghho. The front is decorated with a stenciled capacity number '2' enclosed in a decorative, circular drop-pendant border, showcasing the characteristic grey-brown orange-peel texture of traditional salt glazing.
Story
In 1874, Alexander P. Donaghho brought his pottery secrets from Pennsylvania to West Virginia, turning Parkersburg into a stoneware empire. This crock was a vital household refrigerator before electricity, keeping butter and lard cool.
Maker / Origin
Alexander P. Donaghho was one of the most prominent and successful stoneware manufacturers in the Ohio River Valley region. After operating in Pennsylvania, he established his Parkersburg, West Virginia pottery in 1874, where he utilized local clay to produce highly durable, beautifully stenciled utilitarian wares until the turn of the century.
Condition & Value
The crock has a very clear, dark cobalt stencil with great visual contrast. However, there is a large, visible vertical crack running down the right side of the body, which appears to be a structural hairline. This damage reduces the market value by approximately 50% compared to a mint-condition example.
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.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.