Jug 1850 - 1880

This stoneware jug was made by John Bell in the 19th century, a period marked by significant industrial and social change in America. Born into a family of potters, Bell's work reflects a cultural moment steeped in the values of craftsmanship and agrarian life, yet also touched by the burgeoning market economy. Jugs such as this one were functional items, but also became canvases through which Bell and other potters expressed their artistic identity. The cobalt-blue floral decoration on this jug is typical of the region and speaks to the blend of utility and artistry that defined Bell's practice. Consider how Bell’s work intersects with narratives of labor, immigration, and cultural exchange. Bell's stoneware provides a tangible link to the past, inviting us to consider the lives and experiences of those who lived and worked during this transformative era.