Petite Mid-Atlantic Lidded Storage Jar

Circa 1840-1880: Measuring only 7.5" to the top rim and 8" to the top of the lid's finial, this highly unusual diminutive Mid-Atlantic storage jar has a capacity between one and two quarts and features prominent lug handles usually reserved for pieces of three gallons or more. The jar is decorated front and back with freehand flower baskets under a freehand stripe, and its handles and lid are likewise brushed with cobalt. We are unsure of the jar's exact origin but can say with confidence that larger jars in this form were made in the Mid-Atlantic region of Eastern Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia by potters such as Richard Remmey, John Bell, Thomas Haig, David Parr, and others. Because we have never seen such a small lidded jar with lug handles, we are unsure if this was a typical production piece or a salesman's sample. Whatever the case, this is a rare find. This outstanding little jar is in excellent condition with a flake on the rim as photographed, typical minor rim and lid nicks commensurate with age and use, other firing anomalies as made and a small line on the base with no repairs.