Philadelphia 3 Gallon Stoneware Water Cooler

Circa 1860-1880: Measuring a hair over 14" tall and most probably thrown by Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, master potter Richard C. Remmey, this eye catching three gallon water cooler is decorated on all sides and includes an old wooden spigot that was found with the cooler when we purchased it. Remmey is noted for his double and triple stemmed leafy vine and flower decoration, but this is the first example of his work we have seen that portrays only the leafy vines, making it a scarce and unusual variation on one of his classic motifs. Condition is generally excellent with expected minor chipping on rim and handles, no cracks or repairs, and typical factory firing anomalies. This piece of stoneware has great contrast with wonderful dark blue cobalt against a light gray salt glazed coloration, which, along with the cooler's completely blue bung and rare and highly graphic triple leafy vine decoration, adds to the piece's overall desirability among the field's advanced collectors.