Early-19th Century Slip-Decorated Red Earthenware Bowl Recovered in Lexington, Kentucky

Outside of an archaeological context, this nineteenth century slip-decorated red earthenware bowl would probably be interpreted as being from Pennsylvania, although it was recovered by archaeologists from an antebellum period privy found on property once owned by Henry Clay (1777-1852) in Lexington, Kentucky. The privy is associated with the slave quarters that were once located on the property, and in this case, likely dating from the early-nineteenth century.

Overall, a wide variety of locally made ceramics and imported Chinese and European wares were found in the privies on the property associated with Clay's occupancy. Forms included serving platters, compote dishes and a wide range of stoneware and red earthenware storage jars (most of which were locally made).

To my knowledge, the origin of this bowl has not been identified, but this type of slipware was manufactured in Kentucky, such as a circa 1803-1837 red earthenware business known as the Conrad Pottery located just outside Louisville in Jefferstown, Kentucky.

Early-19th Century Slip-Decorated Red Earthenware Bowl Recovered in Lexington, Kentucky

Early 19th Century Slip-Decorated Red Earthenware Bowl

Recovered from a Privy on Property Owned by Henry Clay in Lexington, Kentucky

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Photo Courtesy: Janice Tomes

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