I recently learned about this rare object privately through Instagram; this large twentieth century stoneware vase was made by Elmer McFarland (1893-1964), who was the head designer during the most prominent years at the Zanesville Stoneware Company in Ohio, circa 1920s-1950s. Inscribed along one side of the vase in script, it reads, "McFarland," whereas this is only one of a few objects known to exist today bearing this mark. In fact, I am only aware of one other vase in existence today.
Interestingly, it is quite unusual that much (if not all) of the history of ownership of this object is known, where I have included two pictures showing this large vase in use in the front yard and in front of the house by the grandparents of the current family owner. They can recall their family owning this object in New England since at least the 1950s. But it is possible that this object has been owned by this family since it was originally made.
According to the family, "The vase may have been acquired through the family's moving company, which was based in Pawcatuck, Connecticut, located right on the border of Rhode Island. They did lots of moving for people who owned summer homes in Watch Hill, Rhode Island and Stonington, Connecticut, as well as other places, so they vase may have also been acquired this way."
Additionally, Zanesville Stoneware Company collector Joseph Lyons has been compiling information about the life and career of McFarland, so if anyone reading this has information to share or any other signed objects bearing this mark - please contact him through social media. From my understanding - there is not a lot of information known about McFarland today. Nonetheless, though, this is an important discovery for twentieth century stoneware made in Zanesville, Ohio.
Rare Signed Stoneware Vase Made in Zanesville, Ohio
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