Covered Jar 1780 - 1820

This anonymous ceramic jug, “Covered Jar,” was crafted in the late 18th or early 19th century. It exemplifies American stoneware from this period, with its simple form, hand-thrown construction, and brown salt glaze. The irregular flecks of brown and black in the glaze are characteristic of this technique, which was common in the American colonies. The piece's small size suggests it was intended for personal use, likely for storing small amounts of food or liquid. This example is currently housed in the Art Institute of Chicago.