Jar c. 1936

This stoneware jar was made by Charles Caseau, though the exact date remains unknown. Its utilitarian form and decoration speak to a rich history of ceramic production. The jar's form is defined by its robust, cylindrical body and subtly flared lip, punctuated by two handles. Decoration is minimal, with cobalt blue flourishes framing a central inscription. This restrained aesthetic is characteristic of stoneware made across America's Eastern Seaboard. Stoneware like this was a staple of households and industries alike. It held everything from food to chemicals. The cobalt decoration wasn’t just pretty, it was practical, helping to distinguish contents. The creation of this jar involved considerable physical labor, from digging clay to firing the kiln. These objects reflect the skill of the potter and the demands of daily life, a reminder of the interplay between handcraft and the broader economy. By appreciating these functional forms, we acknowledge the significance of everyday creativity.