Frederick Carpenter, Stoneware and Charlestown Marks

Frederick Carpenter emerged as arguably the most well-known and talented stoneware potter among the group who worked in Charlestown, Massachusetts following the American Revolution. There are many examples of wares he produced that bear both the names Boston and Charlestown. I have never personally seen an example that was signed or stamped, "Carpenter" - but that's not to say such an example does not exist.

Frederick Carpenter Stoneware Jugs - Charlestown, Ma

Photo Courtesy: Skinner, Inc. - Boston

Carpenter's use of multiple incised decorations, which may have potentially served as company logos are extremely interesting. Jonthan Fenton, who very briefly, worked alongside Carpenter in Charlestown is most-known for using an incised blue fish or blue flower to decorate his stoneware jugs and jars.

Jonathan Fenton Stoneware Jug - Charlestown, Ma

"Flower" Design

Photo Courtesy: Skinner, Inc. - Boston

Jonathan Fenton Stoneware Jug - Charlestown, Ma

"Fish" Design

Photo Courtesy: Skinner, Inc. - Boston

The concept of a stoneware potter within an American seaside community, incorporating a fish design into stoneware is completely understandable. Charlestown at the time, was a maritime community (still is) and an incised fish design makes sense from this persepective. The use of a flower was common-use for stoneware potters from all American stoneware communities. Both designs are logical.

However, Frederick Carpenter's designs were unexpected and nearly unexplainable - and as to why he used a heart, swag, a type of cross or "t" and an eagle for decoration, until recently, was a mystery to me. I am not saying it still is not, but I may have come across an understanding for a few of the design concepts.

There may be additional, lesser-known designs to include in this list that I am not aware of at this time. Anything is possible in the world of early American ceramics. There is really no rhyme or reason to any particular potters style and design on any given day. The idea behind an often seen design does become questionable.

Take a look at what I mean.

"Swag" Type Design

"Swag" Type Design

"Swag" Type Design

"Eagle" Design

Photo Courtesy: Skinner, Inc. - Boston

"Cross" or "t" Design

Photo Courtesy: Skinner, Inc. - Boston

"Heart" Design

Photo Courtesy: Skinner, Inc. - Boston

I have developed theories why some of these designs may have been used. If my research proves true, the designs will be extremely significant and important for the very picture they tell in a historical sense. The true meaning may just be that important. This will all hopefully be proven in time.

Take a look at the designs and think about them. Don't they seem like an unlikely choose of design? Any thoughts?

More research to come...