3 Gallon Jug with Cobalt Pointing Hand

Circa 1870s: This hefty 14" tall three gallon Midwestern presentation jug most likely from Ohio features a rare whimsical slip decorated pointing hand and two sets of initials, JS and GS, probably celebrating the marriage or anniversary of a couple, the pointing hand announcing the couple's importance on this special occasion. Pointing hands are a fairly common (and highly desirable) motif on late 19th and early 20th century trade signs, but there are very few examples of stoneware known with this type of figural decoration. This graphic one of a kind folk art jug is in excellent condition with minor chipping on the spout and no cracks or repairs.