I first encountered this finely thrown, nineteenth century red earthenware handled pot more than fifteen years ago in the personal collection of Sam Herrup in western Massachusetts. It has always been somewhat of an enigma. While various theories over the years have suggested a Maine origin, its sheer refinement effectively rules out most northern New England production centers. Instead, the potting aligns far better with the skill of coastal Massachusetts artisans, such as the Quaker potters who produced thinly thrown wares in Bristol County between 1780 and 1830. Interestingly, the only comparable object I have ever seen was a jar sold over a decade ago in Quebec. Rather than indicating a production link to Canada, however, that jar was likely just a piece that migrated north over time.
Although I lack definitive proof, I cannot help but wonder if these mysterious objects might actually originate from Vermont. My upcoming eleventh book—co-researched with a team of scholars and titled A Monumental History: Stories of Red Earthenware Production in Western Massachusetts, the Berkshires, and Vermont—uncovers dozens of Vermont red earthenware businesses, some of which have been almost entirely overlooked by twentieth century scholarship. Central and western Massachusetts was also home to a diverse, nineteenth century red earthenware industry that remains largely unstudied today, leaving open the possibility that these masterfully potted pieces belong to one of these lesser-known regional traditions.
Nonetheless, adorned in a striking yellow and manganese glaze, this handled pot is truly an exceptional object!
Please Stay Tuned...Much More to Come...
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