Important B.C. Milburn 2 Gallon Stoneware Storage Jar

Circa 1841-1873: This attractive 12" tall two gallon storage jar impressed with Bendict Cuthbert Milburn's classic "B.C. Milburn Alexa" stamp is decorated with a super folksy and rare sunflower and is illustrated on page 253 of Alexandria, Virginia Pottery: 1792-1876 (Wadsworth Publishing Company 2007), where author Eddie Wilder asserts that it is "a very important collectible piece." Wilder also notes that "it is uncommon to find jars as large as this 2-gallon one, with no lifting ears (lugs)," making this a scarce form with a one-of-a-kind decoration. Condition is also excellent with a few scattered shallow flakes around the base and no cracks or repairs. This is a great and unusual piece of Virginia stoneware with charming folk art appeal. Provenance: Ex Al and Billy Steidel Collection